Theipirai Ashtami holds a special place for devotees of Lord Kala Bhairava, one of the most powerful forms of Lord Shiva.
Kala Bhairava is regarded as one of the 64 manifestations of Lord Shiva and is revered as the guardian deity of temples and the protector of dharma. In many Shiva temples, Bhairava is worshipped before the temple closes for the night, symbolising his role as the divine guardian who watches over devotees and protects sacred spaces.
According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Shiva manifested Maha Bhairava to destroy the demon Andhakasura, who was causing suffering to the Devas and sages. Bhairava successfully defeated the demon and restored cosmic balance. He is also known for removing arrogance and ignorance, symbolised through the story in which he severed one of Lord Brahma's heads to teach the importance of humility.
The scriptures also describe the appearance of the Ashta Bhairavas, the eight forms of Bhairava who protect the eight directions of the universe. These include Asithanga Bhairava, Ruru Bhairava, Chanda Bhairava, Krodha Bhairava, Unmatta Bhairava, Kapala Bhairava, Bhishana Bhairava and Samhara Bhairava.
Kala Bhairava is often referred to as the Lord of Time and is believed to oversee the movement of planets, directions and cosmic energies. Because of this, devotees believe that worshipping him helps reduce the effects of planetary afflictions and brings stability into life.
Why is Theipirai Ashtami important?
Theipirai Ashtami, which falls during the waning phase of the moon, is considered the most auspicious day to worship Kala Bhairava.
Devotees believe that sincere prayers offered on this day can help:
- Remove obstacles and delays in life
- Reduce the effects of planetary doshas, especially Saturn-related challenges
- Protect against fear, negativity and unseen obstacles
- Improve focus, courage and mental strength
- Bring success in personal and professional matters
- Remove karmic burdens and spiritual blockages
- Grant peace of mind and inner stability
Many devotees also pray to Kala Bhairava for protection during difficult periods and seek his blessings for guidance and strength.
How Do Devotees Worship Kala Bhairava?
Special prayers are usually performed during the evening of Theipirai Ashtami. Common observances include:
- Offering red flowers to Kala Bhairava
- Lighting ghee lamps
- Offering garlands made of lotus, vilvam, thumbai and chrysanthemum flowers
- Performing abhishekam and archanai
- Chanting Bhairava mantrams
- Reciting or listening to the Kala Bhairavashtakam
Among these practices, reciting the Kala Bhairavashtakam, composed by Adi Shankaracharya, is considered highly beneficial.
According to tradition, devotees who regularly chant or listen to the hymn are blessed with wisdom, spiritual growth, freedom from fear, and relief from sorrow, anger, attachment and hardships.
Source : Vikatan , Indurthi Ramanujarao , Reddit
