Fri Nov 22 14:15:20 UTC 2024: ## Kala Bhairava Jayanti to be Celebrated on November 22nd

**Hyderabad, India –** Devotees across India will observe Kala Ashtami, also known as Kala Bhairava Jayanti, on November 22nd, 2024. This festival commemorates the manifestation of Kala Bhairava, the fierce form of Lord Shiva, who emerged to resolve a conflict between Brahma and Vishnu.

According to Hindu mythology, Brahma and Vishnu argued over their supremacy. To settle the dispute, they appealed to Shiva. However, Brahma’s refusal to accept Shiva’s mediation led to the emergence of Kala Bhairava, who then severed one of Brahma’s five heads to teach him humility. Later, appeased by the other Gods, Shiva reabsorbed Kala Bhairava back into himself.

Kala Bhairava Jayanti is observed on the eighth day of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the Margashira month of the Hindu lunar calendar. Devotees believe worshipping Kala Bhairava brings protection from negative energies, diseases, and grants wishes. Specific rituals include:

* Early morning purification bath and observance of a fast.
* Chanting the mantra “Hreem Unmat Bhairavay Namah.”
* Cleaning the home, especially the prayer area.
* Setting up a Kala Bhairava idol or yantra.
* Lighting an oil lamp with mustard oil and offering sweets and flowers.
* Reciting the Kala Bhairava Ashtakam.
* Lighting four lamps in the four cardinal directions.
* Offering milk and sometimes, alcohol to Kala Bhairava.
* Performing puja throughout the night.
* Feeding a black dog sweet bread after breaking the fast, believed to bring added benefits.

This year, the Ashtami Tithi begins at 6:07 PM on November 22nd and concludes at 7:56 AM on November 23rd. While these rituals are traditionally followed, it is advisable to seek guidance from religious experts before undertaking them. The information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered definitive religious advice.

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