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Pandit Mohit Tiwari JiVedic Pujan Seva · Ujjain
हिन्दी

Margashirsha Krishna Ashtami

Kaal Bhairav Ashtami

The day of Kaal Bhairav, the fierce and protective form of Shiva, observed on Margashirsha Krishna Ashtami. Ujjain is known for its ancient Kaal Bhairav temple, regarded as the guardian of the city, where large gatherings come for darshan.

Ujjain special

Upcoming dates

  • Tue, 1 December 2026Tentative
  • Sun, 21 November 2027Tentative
  • Fri, 10 November 2028Tentative

Significance

Kaal Bhairav Ashtami is observed on Margashirsha Krishna Ashtami and is remembered as the day Bhairav appeared as a form of Shiva. Kaal Bhairav is seen in tradition as the guardian of a sacred city and of the devotees who live in it, and the devotion is that of respect, not fear.

Ujjain's Kaal Bhairav temple is among the best known in the country and has its own long-standing tradition of offerings. Please be careful to follow only the temple's official guidance and not to hand money to anyone who promises special access. If you cannot visit, a Kaal Bhairav pujan can be arranged in your name through an online sankalp.

How it is observed

  • Morning bath and a fast kept with a calm mind
  • Offering sindoor, black sesame, urad and mustard oil lamp
  • Chanting the Kaal Bhairav Ashtakam or Bhairav mantra
  • Evening aarti and a respectful visit to the temple if possible
  • Feeding dogs, which tradition associates with Bhairav

Recommended pujans

Pujans devotees often arrange around this festival.

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Kaal Bhairav Ashtami: Date, Meaning & Rituals