Margasira Bahula Ashtami 2022 Kalabhairavashtami Date Timings

Margasira Bahula Ashtami 2022 refers to the special Bhairava Ashtami or Kalabhairavashtami observed in the Hindu lunar calendar on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Krishna Paksha (waning moon phase) in the month of Margashirsha/Agrahayana. This sacred observance in 2022 fell on Wednesday, 16 November 2022, and it is dedicated to Lord Bhairava — a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva.

However, for devotees, this day holds deep religious and spiritual significance, with rituals, fasting (vrat), special puja, and blessings sought for protection and liberation from fear and adversity. Across India and Hindu communities globally, Margasira Bahula Ashtami is celebrated with devotion, early morning rituals, and evening worship.

Date And Timings Of Margasira Bahula Ashtami 2022

Here’s the precise date and time details you must know for Margasira Bahula Ashtami (Kalabhairavashtami) in 2022: Understanding Margasira Bahula Ashtami 2022 is essential.

Festival	Date (2022)	Ashtami Tithi Begins	Ashtami Tithi Ends
Margasira Bahula Ashtami / Kalabhairavashtami	16 November 2022 (Wednesday)	Approximately early morning (depends on location)	17 November 2022 (morning)

Exact timing of the Ashtami Tithi varies region-wise based on local sunrise and moon positions. According to planetary calculations, the tithi starts around late morning or early afternoon of 16 November and continues into 17 November depending on local time zones.

Significance And Cultural Meaning

Margasira Bahula Ashtami, also popularly called “Bhairava Ashtami” or “Kalabhairavashtami,” is regarded as the birth anniversary of Lord Bhairava — an incarnation of Lord Shiva symbolizing time (Kala), destruction of fear, and protection from negative energies.

In contrast, according to Hindu scriptures, Bhairava emerged from Lord Shiva’s fierce form to curb egotism and protect Dharma (cosmic duty). Devotees believe that worshipping Lord Bhairava on this auspicious day helps overcome obstacles, fears, planetary doshas, and spiritual impediments. This relates to Margasira Bahula Ashtami 2022.

Furthermore, this festival blends mythological reverence with practical aspects of faith — fasting, prayer, and temple worship — all performed to invite strength, courage, and blessings for the year ahead.

How Margasira Bahula Ashtami 2022 Is Observed

Early Morning Preparations

Devotees rise before sunrise to perform ritualistic cleansing. A ritual bath at Brahma Muhurta (pre-dawn) is considered highly auspicious to purify the body and mind. Fresh clothes are worn and puja preparations begin. Many visit Shiva and Bhairava temples early in the morning.

Sankalp And Puja Rituals

A Sankalp (solemn vow) is taken by devotees to observe fast and perform Bhairava puja with devotion. The puja plate includes flowers, black sesame seeds (til), bel patra (bilva leaves), fruits, incense, and oil lamps. Devotional mantras and prayers are recited to Lord Bhairava seeking emancipation from fear and protection from negative influences. Learn more about Margasira Bahula Ashtami 2022.

I personally recommend preparing the puja items a day in advance to avoid any morning rush. Ensuring clean surroundings and calm mind enhances the spiritual experience.

Offering At The Temple

Devotees visit temples to offer oil lamps, coconuts, and Prasad. In some regions, offerings such as sweets (like ladoos or meetha roti) and milk are made to the deity as symbolic gifts of devotion.

Fasting And Prayer

A significant number of devotees observe a strict fast throughout the day. Some may consume fruits or milk only after sunset or after evening puja. It is believed that a fast with complete devotion brings stronger blessings. Worshippers remain awake into the night, reciting Bhairava mantras or listening to Bhairava stories.

Evening Rituals And Breaking The Fast

Evening prayers and chanting of sacred hymns, such as the Kalabhairava Ashtakam, mark the end of the fasting period. After completing the evening worship, devotees may break their fast with prasad offered to Lord Bhairava.

My Experience At Kalabhairavashtami

When I visited a local Bhairava temple on Margasira Bahula Ashtami in 2019, I was struck by the early morning energy. Groups chanted mantras quietly in the pre-dawn light, and the scent of incense blended with calm spiritual anticipation. What surprised me most was how people carried personal offerings — like black sesame and jaggery — with explanations for each item’s spiritual significance.

I personally recommend attending temple rituals early before the puja, as the crowd settles and the experience feels more serene. Interacting with priests also helped me understand why each aspect of the puja holds meaning beyond symbolic gestures.

Tips And Best Practices For Observance

• Plan Ahead: Prepare puja items the night before to avoid last-minute rush. Keep essentials like fresh flowers, sesame seeds, and holy water ready.
• Follow Local Panchang: Use a reliable Hindu calendar or panchang (lunar planner) to confirm exact tithi times based on your location.
• Maintain Purity: Eat simple food before observing the fast, and refrain from indulgent or heavy meals if you plan to fast strictly.
• Respect Temple Protocols: During temple visits, adhere to the rules, especially during crowded timings. Dress modestly and maintain silence during deep worship moments.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Ignoring Correct Tithi: Starting puja before the Ashtami Tithi begins may dilute spiritual benefits. Always check precise timings.
• Skipping Morning Rituals: Skipping the early morning bath and puja setup can reduce the devotional impact of the observance.
• Overlooking Local Customs: Different regions follow specific customs. Always check with local temple authorities if uncertain.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What Is The Meaning Of Margasira Bahula Ashtami?

It refers to the Ashtami Tithi in the Krishna Paksha of the Hindu month Margashirsha — a day devoted to worship of Lord Bhairava, especially in his fierce form as the remover of fear and protector of devotees.

Is Fasting Necessary On This Day?

Fasting is recommended as a devotional practice. Some observe a strict fast, while others may eat fruits and milk only. The essence lies in sincerity of intention and devotion rather than strict food rules.

Why Is Lord Bhairava Worshipped On This Day?

Lord Bhairava is worshipped to dispel fear, overcome obstacles, and receive divine protection. Many believe that sincere Bhairava puja wards off planetary doshas and brings courage and discipline.

Can I Perform Puja At Home?

Yes, home puja is widely practiced. Devotees set up a clean altar, place deity pictures or idols, and perform puja with offerings. Maintaining devotion and following correct timing is key.

Where Can I Learn More About The Festival?

You can explore detailed descriptions of this festival on Wikipedia – Bhairava Ashtami and consult Drik Panchang Festival Page for exact regional timings.