Kaal Bhairav Jayanti
Also called: Bhairava Ashtami, Maha Kalashtami
Marks the exact annual appearance day when Lord Kaal Bhairav manifested from Lord Shiva's third eye. Celebrated with immense fervor in Varanasi and Ujjain as the supreme day of Bhairava worship.
Key facts
- Paksha
- Krishna Paksha
- Lunar month
- Margashirsha (Purnimanta); Kartik (Amanta)
- Deities
- Lord Kaal Bhairav
The story
The Shatarudra Samhita narrates the full manifestation of Bhairava during the cosmic discourse between Brahma and Vishnu, his severance of Brahma's fifth head to extinguish hubris, and his journey to Kashi where he was enthroned as the Kotwal.
Practices
- Elaborate midnight abhisheka with panchamrita, mustard oil, and fragrant waters
- Offering sweet liquor, urad dal pakoras, and garlands of red flowers where customary
- Night-long vigil with continuous stotra chanting and dhol-damru music
Regional variations
- Grand temple festivals, silver mask processions, and public feeding programs in Varanasi and throughout Shakta Peethas
Common questions
- Why is Kaal Bhairav called the Kotwal of Kashi?
- Lord Shiva appointed him as the supreme spiritual police chief (Kotwal) of Kashi, without whose permission no soul can dwell or attain liberation there.
Types of Kalashtami
- Masik KalashtamiOccurs throughout all 12 lunar months
- Kaal Bhairav JayantiMargashirsha (Purnimanta); Kartik (Amanta)