Kalabhairav Jayanti 2025, also known as Mahakaal Bhairavashtami or Kala Bhairav Ashtami, is one of the most powerful spiritual observances dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav, the fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. This sacred occasion, celebrated on the Krishna Paksha Ashtami of the Kartik month, marks the divine appearance day of Lord Kalabhairav. In 2025, devotees across India and abroad will celebrate Kalabhairav Jayanti on Wednesday, 12th November 2025.
According to the Hindu Panchang, the Ashtami Tithi begins at 11:09 PM on November 11 and concludes at 10:58 PM on November 12. The sunrise on the day is at 6:42 AM, while sunset occurs at 5:39 PM. The moonrise is expected at 12:35 AM, and moonset at 1:06 PM (IST, Ujjain).
The Divine Legend Behind Kalabhairav Jayanti 2025
The story of Kalabhairav Jayanti 2025 traces back to an intense cosmic event. Once, a debate arose among Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Mahesh (Shiva) about who was the supreme creator. Angered by Brahma’s arrogance, Lord Shiva manifested a fiery energy from his forehead, giving birth to Lord Kalabhairav. To teach Brahma humility, Bhairav severed one of Brahma’s five heads, leaving him with four. From that moment, Bhairav became the guardian deity of time (Kaal) and justice.
This fierce yet protective form of Shiva is worshipped for the removal of negativity, ego, and past karmic debts. Expert Numerologist Rishabh A Grover describes this divine energy as “the cosmic reminder that time spares none, and surrendering to divine discipline opens the path to liberation.”
Significance of Kalabhairav Jayanti 2025
Kalabhairav Jayanti 2025 carries immense spiritual and astrological significance. Devotees believe that worshipping Lord Bhairav on this day destroys sins, eradicates fear, and grants protection from evil forces. According to Rishabh A Grover, the planetary vibrations on this particular Jayanti align powerfully with Saturn and Rahu—planets associated with karma and time. Performing rituals on this day, he suggests, “can help balance one’s karmic energies, attract discipline, and unlock hidden spiritual strength.”
This day is also regarded as highly auspicious for seeking forgiveness for past misdeeds and for invoking divine justice. Many devotees offer prayers not only to Lord Bhairav but also to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, honoring the divine family.
Rituals and Worship on Kalabhairav Jayanti 2025
On Kalabhairav Jayanti 2025, devotees wake up early, take a purifying bath, and offer prayers with utmost devotion. The rituals include lighting oil lamps, offering flowers, incense, and black sesame seeds to Lord Bhairav. Special Bhairav Mantras like “Om Hreem Batukaya Apaduddharanaya Kurukura Batukaya Hreem Om Phat” are chanted to seek protection and divine blessings.
In several temples, especially in Ujjain, Varanasi, and Kashi, grand celebrations are held throughout the night. It is believed that staying awake during the night, reading stories of Lord Shiva and Bhairav, and meditating on his form brings immense spiritual merit.
One unique custom is feeding black dogs, regarded as the vehicle (vahana) of Lord Kalabhairav. Offering food, milk, or sweets to dogs is believed to please the deity and bring peace, prosperity, and protection.
Fasting and Devotional Practices for Kalabhairav Jayanti 2025
Many devotees observe a Kalabhairav Jayanti fast throughout the day. The fast symbolizes self-restraint and surrender to time—the true essence of Lord Bhairav. Fasting is usually accompanied by chanting, reading sacred texts like the Bhairav Chalisa, and performing evening aarti.
As per Numerologist Rishabh A Grover, fasting on this day aligns the mind and body with the vibration of the number eight, ruled by Saturn (Shani). This helps devotees overcome struggles, achieve focus, and manifest long-term success. He recommends lighting eight oil lamps at midnight as a remedy for removing karmic blocks and invoking divine strength.
Blessings and Spiritual Essence of Kalabhairav Jayanti 2025
Observing Kalabhairav Jayanti 2025 with sincerity is believed to cleanse one’s life from sins, fears, and obstacles. Lord Bhairav, as the protector of dharma, blesses his devotees with courage, prosperity, and inner peace. It is said that those who remember him on this sacred night gain divine protection from unseen forces.
As Rishabh A Grover beautifully summarizes, “Kalabhairav Jayanti 2025 reminds us that time is both destroyer and healer. When we respect time, discipline, and divine justice, we align ourselves with the eternal rhythm of the universe.”
May this Kalabhairav Jayanti 2025 illuminate your life with divine wisdom, protection, and strength. Har Har Bhairav!