Kalabhairava Jayanthi 2021 Date and Tithi Time

Lord Shiva took on different forms in order to teach humanity important life lessons. The Kaal Bhairav is one such instance (also spelt as Kala Bhairava or Kalabhairava). Mahadev's fiercest and deadly side is said to be on this side. Lord Shiva was born as Kaal Bhairav on the this Ashtami Tithi(27th November 2021), Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Karthika (as per the Telugu calendar). As a result, followers commemorate Kaal Bhairav's birth anniversary on this day.

Significance of Kalahairava Jayanti

The term Bhairava comes from the word Bhiru (meaning - fear). Dandapani is another name for Mahadev's avatar (meaning - the one who punishes). The folklore surrounding the Kaal Bhairav form teaches an important life lesson. According to legend, Brahma became conceited and boasted about being the Universe's creator. As a result, Kaal Bhairav punished him by severing one of Brahma's five heads with his Trishul (trident). This was done to remind Brahma that pride, ego, and arrogance are all things that lead to one's demise. Brahma was also cursed by Shiva, who declared that no follower would adore him. As a result, compared to other gods, Brahma has a small number of devotees.

Kaal Bhairav is reported to have arrived with four hands and teeth that protruded forth. In one of his right hands, he clutched a sword (talwar), a noose (pasa), or a snake (sarp), and in the other, a skull (kapal). In his two left hands, he also wielded a damru (drum) and a trident (trishul). Mahadev in this form is clad scantily and is accompanied by his horse, a dog.

Devotees stay up all night on Kaal Bhairav Jayanti to do puja and aarti. They also feed dogs and pay homage to their departed forefathers and mothers.