Kalashtami June 2023: Check out date, time, rituals and significance

Kalashtami holds significant significance within the Hindu community, as it is a special day dedicated to the worship of Lord Kaal Bhairav. Devotees engage in prayers and pay homage to Lord Kaal Bhairav on this auspicious occasion. According to the Hindu calendar, the Kalashtami fast is observed on the eighth day (Ashtami Tithi) of the waning phase (Krishna Paksha) in the month of June. In the year 2023, Kalashtami will be observed on June 10th.

The Kalashtami event in June 2023 will take place on the following date and time:
Start of Ashtami Tithi: June 10, 2023, at 02:01 PM
End of Ashtami Tithi: June 11, 2023, at 12:05 PM


Kalashtami: Significance
Kaal Bhairav, a formidable manifestation of Lord Shiva, is renowned as the guardian of time, as suggested by his name. He is also referred to as Lord Dandapani. Kaal Bhairav is believed to possess the ability to dispel malevolent energies and spirits. He serves as the protector of Lord Shiva's abode and all associated temples, earning him the title of Kshetra Pal. Batuk Bhairav is the popular name given to the guardians of each Shakti Peetha.

Kaal Bhairav embodies a protective energy and aids in the eradication of five moral vices: lust, anger, greed, attachment, and ego. Devotees who worship Kaal Bhairav with unwavering devotion receive respite from fear, ailments, hidden adversaries, and black magic. Those who are consistently engaged in spiritual practices and hold profound reverence for Lord Shiva find solace and protection through their devotion to Lord Kaal Bhairav.

Kalashtami: Mantra
Om Kaalakaalaaya Vidhmahey Kaalaatheethaaya,
dheemahi Thanno Kaala Bhairava Prachodhayaath..!!

Kalashtami: Rituals
Before commencing the puja rituals, devotees traditionally take a bath to purify themselves. The primary offering to Lord Kaal Bhairav is Meetha Rott (sweet flatbread), which is presented as bhog (sacred offering). Lighting a diya (oil lamp) with mustard oil is a customary practice. Devotees visit the Kaal Bhairav temple to offer prayers, express their gratitude, and seek blessings from the Lord. Reciting the Kaal Bhairav Ashtakam is encouraged as it is believed to please Lord Bhairav and aid in the removal of negativity and evil spirits.

In the evening, devotees may break their fast after offering prayers to the Lord. They often consume sattvik food, such as sweet parantha (flatbread) and jaggery kheer (sweet rice pudding). However, those who cannot partake in this specific meal may opt for a regular meal consisting of roti (bread) and sabzi (vegetable dish), while ensuring that the food remains sattvik (pure and devoid of negative energies).