Why are dogs fed on Kalabhairav Jayanti?

The dog is Bhairava's vahana, so feeding dogs is the standard observance on his day and on Kalashtami generally. He's Shiva's fierce guardian form and the protector of Kashi, traditionally you ask his permission before a Varanasi pilgrimage.

Kalabhairav Jayanti

Kannada

Next date

1 December 2026

Tuesday · Krishna Ashtami

Tithi begins12:12 AM

Tithi ends11:14 PM

Full panchang for this day

About

The appearance day of Kala Bhairava, worshipped at midnight (Nishita).

Falls on: Margashirsha Krishna Ashtami

What it is

The appearance of Bhairava, Shiva's fierce guardian form, born when Shiva severed one of Brahma's heads. He is the kotwal of Kashi, the city's guardian, and traditionally one asks his permission before a Varanasi pilgrimage. Dogs are fed, being his vahana.

Food

Offerings vary by tradition and can include liquor at some shrines. Dogs are fed as a matter of course.

Common questions

Why are dogs fed on Kalabhairav Jayanti?: The dog is Bhairava's vahana, so feeding dogs is the standard observance on his day and on Kalashtami generally. He's Shiva's fierce guardian form and the protector of Kashi, traditionally you ask his permission before a Varanasi pilgrimage.

2026

Dec1TueTuesdayNextKrishna AshtamiTithi begins12:12 AMTithi ends11:14 PM

2027

Nov20SatSaturdayKrishna AshtamiTithi begins07:18 PMTithi ends05:20 PM · 21 Nov