Masik Kalashtami July 2026: Significance, Tithi Timings, Puja Vidhi, Fasting Rules And More

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Masik Kalashtami 2026 will be observed on Tuesday, July 7. Falling on the Krishna Paksha Ashtami Tithi in the lunar month of Ashadha (Purnimanta calendar) or Jyeshtha (Amanta calendar). The day is dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav, the fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva.

Devotees observe this monthly vrat to seek protection, courage, and spiritual blessings. Here's all you need to know about the significance of the observance, tithi timings, rituals, fasting rules, mantras, and more.

Masik Kalashtami 2026 Ashtami Tithi Timings

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• Ashtami Begins: 1:24 PM on July 7, 2026 (IST)
• Ashtami Ends: 12:21 PM on July 8, 2026 (IST)

Note: Timings may vary slightly depending on your location and the Panchang being followed.

Why Is Masik Kalashtami Celebrated?

Masik Kalashtami is observed every month on the Krishna Paksha Ashtami and is dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav, regarded as the guardian of time (Kala), protector of sacred places, and a fierce form of Lord Shiva. Devotees observe a fast and seek His blessings for:

• Protection from negative energies
• Removal of fear and obstacles
• Success in difficult situations
• Spiritual progress
• Peace and courage

Masik Kalashtami 2026 Puja Vidhi

Devotees typically observe the following rituals on Masik Kalashtami:

• Wake up early and take a holy bath.
• Observe a fast (strict or fruit-based according to one's capacity).
• Offer prayers to Lord Shiva and Lord Kaal Bhairav.
• Light a mustard oil or sesame oil lamp.
• Offer flowers, incense, fruits, black sesame seeds, and sweets.
• Chant the Kaal Bhairav Ashtakam or Bhairav mantras.
• Visit a Bhairav temple, if possible.

Many devotees perform special worship after sunset, as the evening is considered especially auspicious for Bhairav worship.

Masik Kalashtami 2026 Fasting Rules

While fasting traditions may vary by region and family customs, many devotees:

• Fast from sunrise until the completion of the puja.
• Consume only fruits and milk if observing a partial fast.
• Avoid onion, garlic, alcohol, and non-vegetarian food.
• Spend the day in prayer, mantra chanting, and charity.

Popular Mantras To Chant On Masik Kalashtami 2026

Kaal Bhairav Moola Mantra

• Om Kalabhairavaya Namah

Bhairava Gayatri Mantra

• Om Kala Kalaya Vidmahe, Kalaatheethaya Dheemahi, Tanno Kalah Prachodayat

Devotees also recite the Kaal Bhairav Ashtakam, traditionally attributed to Adi Shankaracharya.

Masik Kalashtami 2026: Things Devotees Commonly Do

These are some of the things devotees commonly do during Masik Kalashtami:

• Feed black dogs, which are traditionally associated with Lord Bhairav.
• Donate food or clothing to the needy.
• Offer black sesame seeds and mustard oil.
• Maintain truthfulness and avoid anger or negative speech during the vrat.

Why Is July 2026 Masik Kalashtami Special?

The July 2026 Masik Kalashtami coincides with Masik Krishna Janmashtami, meaning devotees of both Lord Kaal Bhairav and Lord Krishna observe their monthly fasts on the same day. This rare overlap adds to the spiritual significance of the occasion, making it an especially auspicious time for prayer, devotion, and self-reflection.