Kalashtami – A Day to Worship Lord Kala Bhairav
Posted on November 4, 2008 in Festivals by naveen
The eighth day of the second fortnight in the month of Karthik is celebrated as Kalashtami. On the day of Kalashtami, devotees worship Lord Kala Bhairav. Devotees observe fasting and pray to the Lord with a great devotion.
When is Kalashtami ?
Kalashtami is celebrated on the day of Ashtami in Krishna paksha of the month of Kartik. In 2008, Kalashtami falls on 19th November, Wednesday.
What is the Myth or Story Behind Kalashtami ?
As per one of the legends, on the day of Kartika Krishna paksha Ashtami Lord Kala Bhairava, one of the forms of Lord Shiva, chopped off Lord Brahma’s one of the five heads and returned to Varanasi (Banaras). Since then Lord Kala Bhairava has been the presiding God of the sacred city Varanasi.
Why Lord Shiva Cut Off the Head of Lord Brahma ?
According to a legend, when Brahma was creating the universe, he created a female deity – ‘Shatarupa’, who has an ability to change herself into hundred beautiful forms. With the charming beauty of Shatarupa Lord Brahma became immediately infatuated. Shatarupa moved in various directions and sides to divert his gaze from her. But, in whichever direction she went, the creator Brahma developed a head.
On that way Brahma developed five heads – one on each side and another above the four heads. To control Brahma, Lord Shiva chopped off the top head. And Lord Shiva thought that Shatarupa being created by him, was his daughter. Hence, Lord Shiva strongly believed that it was wrong for Lord Brahma to become obsessed with her. Lord Shiva ordered that there will be no proper worship for Brahma on the earth.
Kalashtami Celebrations in Banaras :
As Lord Kala Bhairava Swamy is the presiding deity in Banaras, Kalashtami is celebrated with a great fervor. Devotees perform ritual bath in the Ganges river (Ganga punya snaan) and worship the Lord by praying to the deity. Devotees observe fasting on this day.
Kalashtami pooja starts at 12 am. The next day of Kalashtami is also followed by Kala Bhairava pooja in noon. The Kalashtami celebrations held for one and half day.
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