According to the Hindu calendar, Kalashtami (Kalashtami 2026) is observed on the eighth day (Ashtami Tithi) of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of every month. This day is dedicated to Lord Shiva's fierce form, Kal Bhairav. Observing a fast on this day is believed to grant freedom from all fears, victory over enemies, and removal of obstacles. Lord Kal Bhairav ​​is also considered the guardian of Kashi (Varanasi). It is believed that devotees who perform puja with complete devotion on Kalashtami receive the blessings of Bhairav ​​Baba. Let's learn about the important aspects of this festival.

Kalashtami Puja Materials (Puja Samagri)
An image of Lord Kal Bhairav.
A lamp with sesame oil or mustard oil.
Red sandalwood paste, rice grains, and red flowers.
Black sesame seeds and urad dal (black gram).
Incense sticks, cotton wick, and camphor.
Sacred thread (Mouli), Ganges water, and pure water.

Puja Method (Kalashtami 2026 Puja Vidhi)
Wake up early in the morning, take a bath, and wear clean clothes.
Take a vow to observe the fast and meditate on Lord Shiva and Kal Bhairav.
Light a lamp with mustard or sesame oil in front of the idol of Lord Bhairav ​​in the temple.
Performing the Bhairav ​​puja at night is considered more fruitful.
If possible, offer Panchamrit and water to the Bhairav ​​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 the mantra, recite the Kal Bhairav ​​Chalisa and finally perform the aarti.

Lord Bhairav's Favorite Offerings (Kalashtami 2026 Bhog List)
Baba Bhairav ​​is very fond of sweet dishes like Imarti and Jalebi.
Offering Vada or Pakoras made of urad dal on this day is considered auspicious.
In many places, sweets made from milk are also offered on this occasion.

Things to Do (Kalashtami 2026 Upay)
The vehicle of Lord Kal Bhairav ​​is a dog. Therefore, on Kalashtami, be sure to feed a black dog bread, milk, or biscuits. Doing so is believed to reduce the negative influence of malefic planets like Rahu and Ketu in your horoscope.

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