On Sunday, November 1, 2026, devotees observe Masik Kalashtami, the monthly Krishna Paksha Ashtami dedicated to Kala Bhairava, a fierce and protective form of Lord Shiva. In Ujjain, the Ashtami tithi begins at 2:52 pm on November 1 and ends at 1:11 pm on November 2, Indian Standard Time. The local panchang lists sunrise at 6:32 am, sunset at 5:49 pm, moonrise at 11:52 pm and moonset at 12:41 pm.
Kalashtami is observed each month on the eighth lunar day of Krishna Paksha, the waning phase of the moon. The annual Bhairava Ashtami, also called Kalabhairav Jayanti, is the year's most significant observance and falls on December 1 in 2026. November 1 is the regular monthly observance, not the annual Jayanti.
A story in the Shiva Purana recounts how Shiva created Bhairava after Brahma claimed supremacy among the gods. Bhairava cut off one of Brahma's five heads, an act associated with the destruction of pride. Carrying the skull, he wandered as a mendicant until reaching Varanasi, where he became known as the city's guardian deity, or Kshetrapalaka.
Devotees worship Kala Bhairava seeking courage and protection. Common observances include performing puja, reciting hymns, keeping a night vigil, lighting oil lamps and feeding dogs. Religious imagery often shows Bhairava with a trident, a drum and a garland of skulls, accompanied by a dog, his traditional vehicle.
The day invites prayer and quiet reflection. Panchang timings vary by location, so devotees should check a local calendar for exact times before scheduling any worship.
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