Kalashtami June 2026: Puja Vidhi, Mantras And Benefits Of Worshipping Kaal Bhairav To Remove Fear And Negativity

Kalashtami is one of the most auspicious Hindu festivals. This day is dedicated to Kaal Bhairav, the fierce and protective manifestation of Lord Shiva. On this day, the devotees observe a fast from dawn to dusk to please Kaal Bhairav. Kaal Bhairav is considered to be the god who punishes sinners according to their sins and protects those who completely surrender to him.

Kalashtami is observed every month on the Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha as per the Hindu Calendar, but the one falling in the 'Margashirsha' is the most significant. It will be observed in November or December this year.

Kaal Bhairav, the fierce and protective manifestation of Lord Shiva (Image Source: Pexels) 

Kalashtami 8 June 2026: Date and Tithi Timings

Ashtami Tithi Begins - June 8, 2026 - 3:24 AM
Ashtami Tithi Ends - June 9, 2026 - 3:23 AM

Kalashtami 2026: Puja Vidhi

On the day of Kalashtami, devotees wake up before sunrise and take a holy bath to cleanse themselves and start their fast. They perform a special puja solely dedicated to Kaal Bhairav to seek his divine blessings and forgiveness for their sins.

In the morning prayer, light a lamp in front of Lord Kaal Bhairav’s idol. Offer flowers, black sesame seeds, mustard oil and jaggery. On this day, devotees also offer prayers to their dead ancestors. After observing a full day of vrat, visit a temple nearby for evening puja.

Chanting Bhairav mantras and reciting the Kaal Bhairav Ashtaakam is considered most auspicious on this day. Also, feeding a black dog is considered auspicious, as they are the vehicle of Lord Bhairav. Devotees who are keeping fast are advised not to tell lies, maintain cleanliness and not engage in any sort of intoxicants on this day.

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Kalashtami 2026: Significance

According to Hindu scriptures, Brahma, Vishnu and Lord Shiva got into a heated argument regarding who is supreme. The argument got so intense that Lord Shiva got infuriated by Lord Brahma’s words. He then took the form of Kaal Bhairav and beheaded Brahma's 5th head, instantly eradicating his arrogance. From then onwards, devotees started worshipping Kaal Bhairav with the belief that offering prayers to him would remove negativity, suffering and pain from their lives.

ALSO READ: Why Did Lord Shiva Take Kaal Bhairav Avatar? Know Lesser-Known Legend

Kalashtami 2026: Mantra

The following mantras should be recited on Kalashtami to get Lord Bhairav’s divine blessings:

1. Om Kalabhairavaya Namah
2. Om Ham Sham Nam Gam Kam Sam Kham Mahakalabhairavaya Namah
3. Om Namah Shivaya

Kalashtami, the day dedicated to Kaal Bhairav, helps individuals to remove negativity, hardships, sufferings and fear from their lives. So, to attain a life filled with positivity and peace, an individual should start praying to Kaal Bhairav.