Masik Kalashtami 2025: Every month in the Hindu calendar brings with it a rich tapestry of traditions and festivals, and one such powerful observance is Masik Kalashtami. Dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav, a fierce and protective form of Lord Shiva, this day is marked by devotion, fasting, and deep spiritual connection.
Masik Kalashtami 2025
Let’s dive into what Kalashtami is all about, why it’s significant, how it’s observed, and when to mark your calendars in 2025.
Also Read: 2025 Ekadashi Calendar: Dates, Rituals, and the Spiritual Significance Behind the Fast
What Is Masik Kalashtami?
Kalashtami, also known as Kala Ashtami, is observed on the eighth day (Ashtami Tithi) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) every Hindu lunar month. It’s a day set aside to honor Lord Kaal Bhairav, who is believed to be the fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva himself.
This observance happens 12 times a year, but the one that falls during the Margashirsha month holds special significance. It’s celebrated as Kalabhairav Jayanti, which marks the divine appearance of Lord Bhairav.
Interestingly, when Kalashtami falls on a Sunday or Tuesday—days associated with Lord Bhairav—it is believed to hold even more spiritual power.
Kalashtami 2025: When Is It Happening?
The next Masik Kalashtami will be observed on:
- Date: Monday, April 21, 2025
- Ashtami Tithi Timing: Begins on April 20 at 7:01 PM and ends on April 21 at 6:59 PM
That’s just a few days away—so if you plan to observe the fast or perform rituals, it’s time to start preparing.
Rituals and Customs of Kalashtami
Devotees of Lord Shiva, especially those who revere His Bhairav form, observe Kalashtami with utmost dedication. Here’s how the day typically unfolds:
Early Morning Routine
The day begins before sunrise with a sacred bath and a calm mind. Devotees clean their homes and personal altars, and then perform a special puja to Lord Kaal Bhairav, seeking his protection, blessings, and forgiveness for past misdeeds.
Fasting and Prayer
Most devotees observe a strict fast throughout the day. Some also choose to stay awake all night, engaging in bhajans, reciting the Kaal Bhairav Katha, and chanting mantras dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Visit to Kaal Bhairav Temples
In the evening, temples dedicated to Lord Bhairav see a rush of devotees. Special prayers and offerings—including flowers, incense, and sweets—are made.
Honoring Ancestors
Morning rituals often include prayers for one’s ancestors, as it’s believed their blessings come easier on this sacred day.
Feeding Dogs – A Sacred Tradition
One of the unique traditions of Kalashtami is feeding black dogs. Why? Because Lord Bhairav’s vehicle is believed to be a black dog. Devotees offer milk, curd, sweets, and food to stray dogs as a symbolic act of devotion.
Charity and Offerings
Giving food to Brahmins, especially in pilgrimage cities like Kashi (Varanasi), is seen as a highly auspicious deed that multiplies blessings.
Why Kalashtami Is Spiritually Significant
The essence of Kalashtami is rooted in ancient texts like the Aditya Purana, which highlight the fierce yet protective energy of Lord Kaal Bhairav. The word ‘Kaal’ refers to time, and ‘Bhairav’ is one of the most fearsome and powerful manifestations of Shiva.
The Origin Story
According to legend, during a heated argument among the trinity—Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva—Brahma made a disrespectful remark toward Lord Shiva. In response, Shiva took the terrifying form of Mahakaleshwar and cut off Brahma’s fifth head. This act gave rise to the form we know as Kaal Bhairav.
Since then, devotees have worshipped Lord Bhairav not just to seek blessings, but also to find protection from evil, relief from suffering, and guidance through the uncertainties of life.
Spiritual Benefits of Observing Kalashtami
- Brings peace and positivity into one’s life
- Helps remove negative energies and obstacles
- Promotes mental strength and protection from fear
- Grants material prosperity and spiritual upliftment
- Earns the blessings of ancestors and Lord Shiva
Kalashtami Dates in 2025: Full List
Here’s when Kalashtami falls throughout the year, so you can plan your observances:
| Month | Date | Ashtami Tithi Timing |
|---|---|---|
| January | Jan 21 | 12:40 PM – Jan 22, 3:18 PM |
| February | Feb 20 | 9:58 AM – Feb 21, 11:58 AM |
| March | Mar 22 | 4:24 AM – Mar 23, 5:23 AM |
| April | Apr 21 | 7:01 PM (Apr 20) – 6:59 PM (Apr 21) |
| May | May 20 | 5:52 AM – May 21, 4:55 AM |
| June | Jun 18 | 1:35 PM – Jun 19, 11:56 AM |
| July | Jul 17 | 7:09 PM – Jul 18, 5:02 PM |
| August | Aug 16 | 11:50 PM (Aug 15) – 9:35 PM (Aug 16) |
| September | Sep 14 | 5:04 AM – Sep 15, 3:06 AM |
| October | Oct 13 | 12:24 PM – Oct 14, 11:10 AM |
| November | Nov 12 | 11:09 PM (Nov 11) – 10:58 PM (Nov 12) |
| December | Dec 11 | 1:57 PM – Dec 12, 2:57 PM |
Final Thoughts
Masik Kalashtami is more than just a monthly observance—it’s a spiritual reset. Whether you fast, pray, feed stray dogs, or simply reflect on Lord Bhairav’s fierce protection, it’s a day to reconnect with divine energy and invite transformation into your life.
So, as Kalashtami approaches on April 21, take some time to slow down, honor the moment, and channel your devotion to the timeless protector—Lord Kaal Bhairav.
