By Pt. Narendra Sharma
Main observance day of Kalashtami on 9 February 2026, worship of Lord Kala Bhairava and spiritual significance

Phalguna Krishna Ashtami, known as Kalashtami, is regarded as the lunar date when seekers can especially pray for freedom from fear, obstacles and negativity. In 2026 this auspicious observance will fall on Monday, 9 February, a weekday that is dear to Lord Shiva, which makes this Kalashtami even more impactful.
On this day the Krishna Ashtami Tithi of the Phalguna month will be in effect and is worshipped as Kalashtami. This Ashtami is not just another lunar date. It is treated as a highly awakened period for Bhairava sadhana, tantric pacification and inner release from subtle fears.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Kalashtami date | 9 February 2026, Monday |
| Month and paksha | Phalguna month, Krishna Paksha Ashtami |
| Presiding deity | Lord Kala Bhairava, the fierce and protective form of Lord Shiva |
When Kalashtami comes on a Monday, the combined presence of Shiva and Bhairava energy is seen as very auspicious for worship. For devotees who struggle with fear, enemies, occult obstacles or unseen negative influences, this date can become especially meaningful.
Kalashtami is observed every month on Krishna Paksha Ashtami and the entire day is dedicated to Lord Kala Bhairava. Kala Bhairava is worshipped as the Lord of Time, the dispenser of justice and the protector of devotees.
The speciality of the 9 February 2026 Kalashtami lies in its alignment with Phalguna Krishna Ashtami on a Monday. Such a combination is regarded as a favourable sign in traditional practice. Fasting, japa and Bhairava worship on this day are directed towards easing life’s blockages, sudden crises and unexplained fears.
Lord Kala Bhairava is honoured as the Kotwal or guardian chief of Kashi. This title reflects His role rather than just ceremonial respect.
When a person honestly recognises inner fear, guilt and insecurity and mentally offers them at the feet of Bhairava, the deeper dimension of this worship begins to unfold.
Ashtami is associated with power, protection and intense energy. Just as Navami is linked with certain forms of the Goddess, Krishna Ashtami is specially linked with worship of Kala Bhairava.
Sadhana on Kalashtami is connected with
For those who repeatedly experience unknown fears, blocks or sudden disruptions, Bhairava worship on Kalashtami can become an important spiritual support.
The outer form of Kalashtami worship is simple but it requires discipline, purity and sincere feeling.
Evening and night are regarded as especially suitable for Bhairava sadhana on Kalashtami.
A quiet and clean environment during worship makes it easier for the mind to rest in japa and contemplation.
Mantra recitation is central in Bhairava worship.
The essence of these mantras is a heartfelt request to Kala Bhairava for protection from calamities, crises and unseen obstacles and for the right inner direction.
Traditions describe many blessings connected with the Kalashtami fast and worship on Phalguna Krishna Ashtami.
These benefits are associated not only with the fasting and rituals but also with the devotee’s sincerity and readiness to refine behaviour.
Kalashtami fasting is considered particularly supportive in some life situations.
Such devotees can use Kalashtami fasting, mantra japa and simple remedies as a way to rebuild inner strength and a sense of protection.
Certain small but meaningful practices on Kalashtami are known for their gentle effectiveness.
These remedies aim not only at external acts but also at deepening awareness and remembrance of Kala Bhairava.
Within the Kalashtami context, the Kala Bhairava temples at Ujjain and Kashi hold a special place.
Because of this, devotees from many regions travel there on Kalashtami to seek refuge and protection from Kala Bhairava.
The Kalashtami of 9 February 2026 is not only about escaping fear or occult problems. It is an opportunity to grow in stability and inner courage.
For those who have long struggled with fear, enemy troubles or subtle negativity, the 9 February 2026 Kalashtami can become a turning point if observed with devotion, restraint and sincere prayer.
On which month and Tithi does the 9 February 2026 Kalashtami fall
The Kalashtami of 9 February 2026 falls on Phalguna month Krishna Paksha Ashtami. This is the very Ashtami that is observed as Kalashtami and is dedicated to Lord Kala Bhairava through special worship and fasting.
Why is Lord Kala Bhairava worshipped on Kalashtami
Kalashtami is specially dedicated to Lord Kala Bhairava, who is honoured as Lord of Time, Kotwal of Kashi and a powerful protector. His worship is connected with protection from untimely death, fear, enemy troubles, tantra obstacles and negative forces, while fostering fearlessness and confidence in the devotee.
What is the main method of observing the Kalashtami fast
In the Kalashtami fast, after a purifying bath one wears clean or black clothes and takes the fasting vow. In the evening or night, devotees light a mustard oil lamp before Kala Bhairava, offer black sesame, urad, coconut and traditional offerings, then recite “Om Kalabhairavaya Namah” or “Om Hrim Batukaya Apaduddharanaya Kuru Kuru Batukaya Hrim Om Svaha” with devotion.
For whom is the Kalashtami vrat especially recommended
This vrat is particularly recommended for those troubled by frequent nightmares, weak self confidence, strong Rahu, Ketu or Shani afflictions in the horoscope, repeated failure of important efforts and vague feelings of unseen fear and insecurity.
What easy remedies can be done on the 9 February 2026 Kalashtami
Helpful remedies include feeding a black dog, lighting 8 mustard oil lamps, reciting Bhairava Chalisa or Kala Bhairava Ashtaka, donating black sesame and urad and avoiding alcohol and tamasic food. These practices are associated with protection from negative energies and with inviting the grace of Kala Bhairava.
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