Masik Kalashtami 2025: Dates, Rituals, and Significance

Introduction

Masik Kalashtami, also known as Kala Ashtami, is a sacred Hindu observance dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. Observed every month on the Ashtami Tithi (eighth day) of the Krishna Paksha (waning moon phase), this day holds immense spiritual importance for devotees seeking divine protection, relief from hardships, and the eradication of negative energies.

In 2025, Masik Kalashtami will be observed on twelve occasions, with each month’s observance holding unique significance.

About Kala Bhairav

Kala Bhairav is a powerful and fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva, known as the Lord of Time, Protector of Dharma, and Guardian of the Universe. He is regarded as the supreme enforcer of cosmic justice, ensuring that all beings receive the results of their karma.

In Hindu mythology, Kala Bhairav is revered as the guardian of sacred places, protector from evil forces, and bestower of wisdom. His worship is especially significant on Masik Kalashtami, which falls on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Krishna Paksha (waning moon) every month.

Devotees seek Kala Bhairav’s blessings for protection, courage, success, and spiritual growth.

Masik Kalashtami 2025 Dates

The dates for Masik Kalashtami in 2025 are as follows:

👉 Special Mention: Kalabhairav Jayanti, falling on November 12, 2025, is the most significant Kalashtami, marking the appearance of Lord Kaal Bhairav.

Legends Associated with Masik Kalashtami 2025

1. The Birth of Kaal Bhairav and the Humbling of Lord Brahma

One of the most prominent legends linked to Masik Kalashtami 2025 narrates the fierce emergence of Lord Kaal Bhairav to humble Lord Brahma.

According to the Shiva Mahapurana, there was a dispute between Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu regarding their supremacy. Lord Brahma, in his arrogance, claimed superiority over Lord Shiva, ignoring the divine balance. Enraged by Brahma’s ego, Shiva manifested as Kaal Bhairav, a terrifying deity wielding a trident and a noose, radiating immense energy.

In his divine wrath, Kaal Bhairav beheaded one of Brahma’s five heads, symbolizing the destruction of arrogance and false pride. This act humbled Brahma, restoring cosmic order. However, since Brahma was a creator deity, Kaal Bhairav incurred the sin of Brahmahatya (Brahminicide).

To seek atonement, Lord Kaal Bhairav wandered across different places, carrying Brahma’s severed skull as a reminder of his karma. Finally, he reached Varanasi (Kashi), where the sin left him, granting him liberation.

2. Kaal Bhairav – The Guardian of Time (Kaal)

Another significant legend associated with Masik Kalashtami 2025 highlights Lord Kaal Bhairav as the ultimate controller of time (Kaal).

It is believed that Lord Shiva created Kaal Bhairav to oversee time’s natural flow and punish those who misuse their time for evil deeds. Kaal Bhairav is the enforcer of karma, ensuring that no action goes unnoticed. Devotees who observe Masik Kalashtami 2025 with sincerity pray for protection from bad karma, misfortune, and untimely death.

As the deity governing time, Kaal Bhairav determines the past, present, and future, reinforcing the cycle of karma. This is why those who struggle with uncertainties, setbacks, or fear of death seek his blessings during Masik Kalashtami 2025.

3. Kaal Bhairav – The Protector of Varanasi

One of the most revered legends related to Masik Kalashtami 2025 describes Lord Kaal Bhairav as the guardian of Varanasi.

Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is considered the spiritual capital of India. Ancient texts mention that Lord Shiva appointed Kaal Bhairav as the Kshetrapal (chief protector) of the holy city. Devotees believe that without Kaal Bhairav’s permission, even Lord Yama (the god of death) cannot enter Varanasi to claim a soul.

4. The Dog as Kaal Bhairav’s Sacred Companion

A unique legend associated with Masik Kalashtami 2025 revolves around Lord Kaal Bhairav’s vahana (vehicle) – the black dog.

It is believed that dogs symbolize Lord Kaal Bhairav’s presence and serve as his messengers. Devotees often feed stray dogs on Masik Kalashtami 2025, believing that it brings them divine blessings and protection from negative energies.

Ancient scriptures suggest that offering food to dogs on this sacred day helps remove past sins, attract good fortune, and neutralize Shani Dosha (Saturn’s malefic influence) in one’s horoscope.

Why is Masik Kalashtami 2025 Important?

1. Worshiping the Lord of Time – Kaal Bhairav

Lord Kaal Bhairav is considered the guardian of time (Kaal), responsible for maintaining cosmic balance and justice. He ensures that all actions (karma) receive their due consequences. It is believed that by worshiping Lord Kaal Bhairav on masik kalashtami 2025, devotees can:

• Overcome time-related struggles such as delays, setbacks, or stagnation in life.
• Gain protection from uncertainties and fears of the future.
• Enhance decision-making abilities, ensuring progress in career, business, and education.

Since time is irreversible, Lord Kaal Bhairav teaches the importance of utilizing every moment wisely. Those who sincerely observe masik kalashtami 2025 believe that they can align their actions with divine timing for greater success and fulfillment.

2. Protection from Negative Energies and Evil Forces

One of the most significant reasons for observing masik kalashtami 2025 is to seek protection from negative forces, black magic, and evil influences. Lord Kaal Bhairav is known as Dandapani, meaning “the one who wields the staff of justice.” He is responsible for destroying evil, punishing wrongdoers, and protecting his devotees from hidden enemies and harmful energies.

Benefits of praying to Kaal Bhairav on masik kalashtami 2025 include:

• Shielding from negative energies that may cause disturbances in life.
• Overcoming fears, nightmares, and anxiety by invoking divine protection.
• Eliminating harmful influences of black magic or curses.

Devotees believe that chanting Kaal Bhairav mantras and lighting mustard oil lamps on masik kalashtami 2025 can help them ward off evil forces and bring peace into their lives.

3. Liberation from Past Sins and Karmic Debts

According to Hindu beliefs, every action (karma) has consequences, and individuals often carry the burden of past sins (Paap) and karmic debts from previous lives. Masik kalashtami 2025 provides a powerful opportunity to seek forgiveness and liberation from past mistakes.

By observing fasts, performing charity, and worshiping Lord Kaal Bhairav, devotees can:

• Cleanse their karma and seek forgiveness for wrongdoings.
• Remove obstacles created by past sins that hinder their progress.
• Attain spiritual purity and divine blessings.

Those who regularly observe masik kalashtami 2025 believe that their negative karma is reduced, leading to a more peaceful and prosperous life.

4. Favorable Effects on Planetary Doshas and Astrology Benefits

Astrologically, masik kalashtami 2025 holds great significance, especially for those suffering from:

• Shani Dosha (Saturn’s malefic influence)
• Rahu-Ketu Dosha (negative effects of shadow planets)
• Manglik Dosha (unfavorable Mars placement)

Observing masik kalashtami 2025 by offering prayers to Lord Kaal Bhairav helps in:

• Pacifying planetary afflictions that cause delays, hardships, or financial losses.
• Reducing the adverse effects of malefic planets, leading to positive outcomes.
• Improving luck, stability, and peace of mind.

Astrologers often recommend that those suffering from Saturn’s harsh influence (Shani Sade Sati or Dhaiya) should visit Kaal Bhairav temples on masik kalashtami 2025 to receive divine blessings and relief from difficulties.

5. Fulfillment of Desires and Success in Life

Observing masik kalashtami 2025 with dedication and devotion is believed to:

• Attract financial stability and career growth.
• Remove obstacles in legal matters or disputes.
• Ensure victory over enemies and rivals.
• Enhance focus, discipline, and willpower.

Many devotees who are struggling in their jobs, businesses, or personal lives seek blessings from Lord Kaal Bhairav on masik kalashtami 2025 to achieve their goals.

By sincerely following the prescribed rituals and prayers, one can invite prosperity, wisdom, and success into their life.

“Also read about zodiac signs compatibility“

Key Rituals to Follow on Masik Kalashtami 2025

1. Observing a Sacred Fast (Masik Kalashtami Vrat)

One of the most important rituals of Masik Kalashtami 2025 is observing a fast (Vrat). The fast is observed to show devotion to Lord Kaal Bhairav and to seek his divine grace.

Types of Fasting:

• Nirjala Vrat: A strict fast where devotees avoid both food and water for the entire day.
• Phalahar Vrat: A lighter version where devotees consume fruits, milk, and other sattvic (pure) foods.
• Partial Fasting: Some devotees eat one meal after sunset, avoiding grains, onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian food.

Significance of Fasting on Masik Kalashtami 2025:

• Cleanses the body and mind, preparing them for spiritual progress.
• Helps in overcoming past sins and karmic debts.
• Increases mental strength, discipline, and willpower.
• Invokes Lord Kaal Bhairav’s divine blessings for protection from evil forces.

2. Worshiping Lord Kaal Bhairav

On Masik Kalashtami 2025, devotees perform special puja (ritual worship) at temples or home altars to please Lord Kaal Bhairav.

Steps to Perform Kaal Bhairav Puja at Home:

1. Early Morning Bath – Take a sacred bath before sunrise and wear clean, traditional clothes.
2. Setting Up the Altar – Place an idol or picture of Lord Kaal Bhairav on a clean altar or temple space.
3. Lighting a Mustard Oil Lamp – Mustard oil is considered auspicious and removes darkness (ignorance and negativity).
4. Offering Prasad – Devotees offer black sesame seeds, mustard oil, coconut, flowers (especially red and blue), and sweets.
5. Chanting Mantras – Reciting the Kaal Bhairav Ashtakam and the mantra “Om Kaal Bhairavaya Namah” 108 times brings blessings and removes obstacles.
6. Performing Aarti – The worship is concluded by performing an aarti using camphor or a mustard oil lamp.

Significance of Worshiping Kaal Bhairav on Masik Kalashtami 2025:

• Protects devotees from evil spirits, black magic, and negative energies.
• Grants courage, confidence, and fearlessness.
• Ensures justice and karmic balance in life.

3. Offering Prayers at Kaal Bhairav Temples

Visiting a Kaal Bhairav temple on Masik Kalashtami 2025 is highly auspicious. Devotees offer prayers, light lamps, and perform special rituals at these temples for spiritual benefits.

Popular Offerings at Kaal Bhairav Temples:

• Black sesame seeds – Reduces the effects of bad karma.
• Mustard oil lamps – Symbolizes the removal of ignorance and negativity.
• Coconut and sweets – Represents devotion and fulfillment of desires.
• Bhang (Cannabis leaves) and Dry Fruits – Considered favorite offerings of Lord Kaal Bhairav.

Devotees believe that praying at Kaal Bhairav temples on Masik Kalashtami 2025 can remove suffering and bring prosperity.

4. Feeding Black Dogs

One of the most unique and important rituals on Masik Kalashtami 2025 is feeding black dogs. Lord Kaal Bhairav’s vahana (vehicle) is a black dog, and it is considered sacred to feed them on this day.

Ways to Perform This Ritual:

• Offer milk, roti, sweets, and cooked food to stray dogs.
• Ensure that the food is given with love and devotion.
• If possible, take care of a black dog throughout the year for Lord Kaal Bhairav’s blessings.

Significance of Feeding Dogs on Masik Kalashtami 2025:

• Brings good fortune and removes obstacles from life.
• Neutralizes negative planetary influences, especially Rahu and Saturn.
• Ensures protection from unseen dangers and misfortunes.

5. Reciting Kaal Bhairav Mantras and Stotras

Chanting powerful mantras and stotras on Masik Kalashtami 2025 helps in attracting divine protection and success.

Important Mantras to Chant:

1. “Om Kaal Bhairavaya Namah” (108 times)
2. “Om Bhairavaya Swaha”
3. Kaal Bhairav Ashtakam – A powerful hymn dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav.

Significance of Mantra Chanting:

• Removes fear, depression, and anxiety.
• Enhances spiritual wisdom and mental clarity.
• Attracts wealth, prosperity, and divine blessings.

6. Donating to the Poor and Needy

Charity (daan) is an important aspect of Masik Kalashtami 2025. Devotees believe that offering food, clothes, and money to the poor helps in removing past sins and bringing good karma.

Recommended Donations:

• Black sesame seeds and mustard oil – Helps in removing Saturn and Rahu dosha.
• Blankets and warm clothes – Provides comfort and earns blessings.
• Feeding the homeless or underprivileged – Ensures prosperity and peace.

Masik Kalashtami Celebrations Across India

Masik Kalashtami is widely observed in various parts of India.

📍 Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh): The Kaal Bhairav Temple sees thousands of devotees offering mustard oil, black sesame, and liquor.

📍 Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh): The Bhairav Temple in Ujjain is known for its special liquor offering ritual.

📍 Jaipur (Rajasthan): Special bhajans and kirtans take place in temples, and devotees feed black dogs as a part of their prayers.

📍 Delhi: The Bhairav Mandir near Purana Qila is a significant pilgrimage site where devotees seek the blessings of Kaal Bhairav.

Conclusion

Masik Kalashtami is a highly revered day for devotees of Lord Kaal Bhairav. Observing the Masik Kalashtami vrat, feeding dogs, visiting temples, and chanting powerful mantras can bring divine blessings, protection from negative forces, and success in life.

As November 12, 2025, marks Kalabhairav Jayanti, it holds special significance, and devotees should observe it with utmost devotion.

May Lord Kaal Bhairav remove all obstacles from your life and bless you with strength, prosperity, and success! 

FAQs

Q1: What is the importance of fasting on masik kalashtami 2025?
A1: Fasting on masik kalashtami 2025 is believed to purify the body and mind, helping devotees focus on their spiritual journey and prepare for the divine blessings of Lord Bhairava.

Q2: Are there specific mantras to be recited on masik kalashtami 2025?
A2: Yes, reciting the Bhairava Ashtakam along with other sacred mantras is highly recommended on masik kalashtami 2025 to invoke the protective energy of Lord Bhairava.

Q3: What offerings are considered auspicious on masik kalashtami?
A3: On masik kalashtami, offerings like flowers, fruits, coconut, black sesame seeds, honey, and boiled rice are traditional and hold great significance.