Kalabhairava Jayanti, also known as Bhairava Ashtami, is a holy day for Hindus, celebrated to commemorate the manifestation of Bhairava, a furious form of Lord Shiva.
The Bhairava Ashtami falls in the Hindu month of Kartika on the eighth lunar day of Krishna Paksha (waning moon).
Lord Kalabhairava is a fierce form of Lord Shiva, who is worshipped for courage, protection, and karmic cleansing. He is the guardian of dharma, the destroyer of fear, and the guardian of Kashi.
Kalabhairava Jayanti 2025 Puja Timing
- Bhairava Ashtami - November 12, 2025
- Ashtami Tithi begins at 11:08 PM on November 11, 2025.
- Ashtami Tithi ends at 10:58 PM on November 12, 2025.
- Most auspicious timing during Kalabhairava Jayanti is Nishita Kaal (midnight hour).
The Legend of Lord Kalabhairava
According to the Shiva Purana, there was a heated argument between Vishnu and Brahma over who was superior. During the argument, Brahma resorted to dishonest means to prove his superiority over Vishnu and claimed victory.
At that moment, Lord Shiva appeared and created Bhairava, who cut one of Brahma’s five heads as a punishment for his dishonesty.
Lord Brahma begged for Lord Shiva’s forgiveness for his mistake and joined Vishnu to worship Lord Shiva in the form of a Lingam.
Kalabhairava is known to protect his seekers, temples, and time. Despite his wrathful appearance, he is regarded as very compassionate towards his devotees.
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Bhairava Ashtami / Kalabhairava Jayanti Puja Celebration
Kalabhairava Jayanti is celebrated in different styles across India. Here are some of the highlights of Bhairava Ashtami celebrations:
Kashi, Varanasi
The famous Kalabhairava temple is located in Kashi, Varanasi. Devotees throng the temple in huge numbers during Bhairava Ashtami.
Jammu & Kashmir
Bhairav Ashtami is celebrated with great fervour at Bhairav Prasad Mandir in the Vaishno Devi hills of Jammu and Kashmir.
Ujjain
In Ujjain, Lord Bhairava is offered liquor on the occasion of Kalabhairava Jayanti. It is an ancient ritual that has been part of the celebrations for years.
Tamil Nadu & Karnataka
Shiva temples in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka observe seva, cleansing, and puja rituals on Kalabhairava Jayanti.
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FAQs
1. What is Kaal Bhairav Jayanti?
Kaal Bhairav Jayanti is a Hindu festival celebrated to mark the birth anniversary of Lord Bhairav, who is a ferocious form of Lord Shiva.
2. Which day is dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav?
Kalabhairav is worshipped on the eighth lunar day of the Krishna Paksha month every month. However, Kalabhairava Jayanti is celebrated annually during the month of November-December during Ashtami.
3. Which color to wear on Kaal Bhairav Jayanti?
Devotees usually dress up in dark colors like black or dark blue during the Bhairav Ashtami/Kalabhairava Jayanti.
