Understanding Kalashtami: Significance, Rituals, and Offerings

Kalashtami: A Day for Lord Kal Bhairav

According to the Hindu lunar calendar, Kalashtami is celebrated on the eighth day (Ashtami Tithi) of the waning moon phase (Krishna Paksha) each month. This day honors Lord Shiva's formidable aspect, Kal Bhairav. Observing a fast on this occasion is believed to help devotees overcome fears, triumph over adversaries, and eliminate obstacles. Lord Kal Bhairav is also revered as the protector of Kashi (Varanasi). It is said that those who sincerely worship on Kalashtami receive the blessings of Bhairav Baba. Let's explore the key elements of this festival.

Materials Required for Kalashtami Puja
To perform the puja, you will need an image of Lord Kal Bhairav, a lamp filled with sesame or mustard oil, red sandalwood paste, rice, red flowers, black sesame seeds, urad dal (black gram), incense sticks, cotton wicks, camphor, sacred thread (Mouli), Ganges water, and pure water.

Steps for Kalashtami Puja
Begin your day early with a bath and wear clean attire. Make a vow to fast and focus your meditation on Lord Shiva and Kal Bhairav. Light a lamp with mustard or sesame oil before the idol of Lord Bhairav in the temple. It is believed that performing the puja at night yields greater benefits. If possible, offer Panchamrit and water to the idol. Apply a tilak of red sandalwood paste. During the puja, chant the mantra "Om Kalabhairavaya Namaha" or "Om Hreem Batukaya Apaduddharanaya Kuru Kuru Batukaya Hreem" 108 times. After chanting, recite the Kal Bhairav Chalisa and conclude with the aarti.

Favorite Offerings for Lord Bhairav
Baba Bhairav has a particular fondness for sweet treats such as Imarti and Jalebi. Offering Vada or Pakoras made from urad dal is considered auspicious on this day. Additionally, many devotees present sweets made from milk during this celebration.

Recommended Practices for Kalashtami
As Lord Kal Bhairav's vehicle is a dog, it is customary to feed a black dog bread, milk, or biscuits on Kalashtami. This act is believed to mitigate the adverse effects of malefic planets like Rahu and Ketu in one's horoscope.

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