Kaalbhairava Ashtakam Lyrics – कालभैरवाष्टकम्
देवराजसेव्यमानपावनांघ्रिपङ्कजं
व्यालयज्ञसूत्रमिन्दुशेखरं कृपाकरम् ।
नारदादियोगिवृन्दवन्दितं दिगंबरं
काशिकापुराधिनाथकालभैरवं भजे ॥१॥
Kaalbhairava Ashtakam Lyrics – कालभैरवाष्टकम्
Deva-Raaja-Sevyamaana-Paavana-Angghri-Pangkajam
Vyaala-Yajnya-Suutram-Indu-Shekharam Krpaakaram |
Naarada-[A]adi-Yogi-Vrnda-Vanditam Digambaram
Kaashikaa-Pura-Adhinaatha-Kaalabhairavam Bhaje ||1||
भानुकोटिभास्वरं भवाब्धितारकं परं
नीलकण्ठमीप्सितार्थदायकं त्रिलोचनम् ।
कालकालमंबुजाक्षमक्षशूलमक्षरं
काशिकापुराधिनाथकालभैरवं भजे ॥२॥
Bhaanu-Kotti-Bhaasvaram Bhavaabdhi-Taarakam Param
Niila-Kannttham-Iipsita-Artha-Daayakam Trilocanam |
Kaala-Kaalam-Ambuja-Akssam-Akssa-Shuulam-Akssaram
Kaashikaa-Pura-Adhinaatha-Kaalabhairavam Bhaje ||2||
शूलटङ्कपाशदण्डपाणिमादिकारणं
श्यामकायमादिदेवमक्षरं निरामयम् ।
भीमविक्रमं प्रभुं विचित्रताण्डवप्रियं
काशिकापुराधिनाथकालभैरवं भजे ॥३॥
Shuula-Ttangka-Paasha-Danndda-Paannim-Aadi-Kaarannam
Shyaama-Kaayam-Aadi-Devam-Akssaram Nir-Aamayam |
Bhiimavikramam Prabhum Vicitra-Taannddava-Priyam
Kaashikaa-Pura-Adhinaatha-Kaalabhairavam Bhaje ||3||
भुक्तिमुक्तिदायकं प्रशस्तचारुविग्रहं
भक्तवत्सलं स्थितं समस्तलोकविग्रहम् ।
विनिक्वणन्मनोज्ञहेमकिङ्किणीलसत्कटिं
काशिकापुराधिनाथकालभैरवं भजे ॥४॥
Bhukti-Mukti-Daayakam Prashasta-Caaru-Vigraham
Bhakta-Vatsalam Sthitam Samasta-Loka-Vigraham |
Vi-Nikvannan-Manojnya-Hema-Kingkinnii-Lasat-Kattim
Kaashikaa-Pura-Adhinaatha-Kaalabhairavam Bhaje ||4||
धर्मसेतुपालकं त्वधर्ममार्गनाशकं
कर्मपाशमोचकं सुशर्मदायकं विभुम् ।
स्वर्णवर्णशेषपाशशोभिताङ्गमण्डलं
काशिकापुराधिनाथकालभैरवं भजे ॥५॥
Dharma-Setu-Paalakam Tvadharma-Maarga-Naashakam
Karma-Paasha-Mocakam Su-Sharma-Daayakam Vibhum |
Svarnna-Varnna-Shessa-Paasha-Shobhitaangga-Mannddalam
Kaashikaa-Pura-Adhinaatha-Kaalabhairavam Bhaje ||5||
रत्नपादुकाप्रभाभिरामपादयुग्मकं
नित्यमद्वितीयमिष्टदैवतं निरंजनम् ।
मृत्युदर्पनाशनं करालदंष्ट्रमोक्षणं
काशिकापुराधिनाथकालभैरवं भजे ॥६॥
Ratna-Paadukaa-Prabhaabhi-Raama-Paada-Yugmakam
Nityam-Advitiiyam-Isstta-Daivatam Niramjanam |
Mrtyu-Darpa-Naashanam Karaala-Damssttra-Mokssannam
Kaashikaa-Pura-Adhinaatha-Kaalabhairavam Bhaje ||6||
अट्टहासभिन्नपद्मजाण्डकोशसंततिं
दृष्टिपातनष्टपापजालमुग्रशासनम् ।
अष्टसिद्धिदायकं कपालमालिकाधरं
काशिकापुराधिनाथकालभैरवं भजे ॥७॥
Atttta-Haasa-Bhinna-Padmaja-Anndda-Kosha-Samtatim
Drsstti-Paata-Nasstta-Paapa-Jaalam-Ugra-Shaasanam |
Asstta-Siddhi-Daayakam Kapaala-Maalikaa-Dharam
Kaashikaa-Pura-Adhinaatha-Kaalabhairavam Bhaje ||7||
भूतसंघनायकं विशालकीर्तिदायकं
काशिवासलोकपुण्यपापशोधकं विभुम् ।
नीतिमार्गकोविदं पुरातनं जगत्पतिं
काशिकापुराधिनाथकालभैरवं भजे ॥८॥
Bhuuta-Samgha-Naayakam Vishaala-Kiirti-Daayakam
Kaashi-Vaasa-Loka-Punnya-Paapa-Shodhakam Vibhum |
Niiti-Maarga-Kovidam Puraatanam Jagatpatim
Kaashikaapuraadhinaathakaalabhairavam Bhaje ||8||
कालभैरवाष्टकं पठंति ये मनोहरं
ज्ञानमुक्तिसाधनं विचित्रपुण्यवर्धनम् ।
शोकमोहदैन्यलोभकोपतापनाशनं
प्रयान्ति कालभैरवांघ्रिसन्निधिं नरा ध्रुवम् ॥९॥
Kaalabhairavaassttakam Patthamti Ye Manoharam
Jnyaana-Mukti-Saadhanam Vicitra-Punnya-Vardhanam |
Shoka-Moha-Dainya-Lobha-Kopa-Taapa-Naashanam
Prayaanti Kaalabhairava-Amghri-Sannidhim Naraa Dhruvam ||9||
Kalabhairava Ashtakam Meaning, Benefits & Full Explanation – Glory of the Lord of Kashi
Kalabhairava Ashtakam is a sacred Sanskrit hymn composed by the great philosopher Adi Shankaracharya in praise of Lord Kalabhairava, the fierce and protective manifestation of Lord Shiva. He is the divine guardian of the holy city of Kashi (Varanasi) and the destroyer of fear, sins, ego, and ignorance.
Who is Lord Kalabhairava?
Kalabhairava is the fearsome aspect of Lord Shiva, the ultimate destroyer of time (Kaal) and protector of Sanatana Dharma. In the form of Mahakaal, He liberates souls from the cycle of birth and death and governs the karmic records of all beings.
He is often depicted with:
- A garland of skulls
- Trident (Trishul) and Danda (staff)
- Accompanied by dogs, symbolic of Dharma
- Wearing directions as His clothes
He resides in Kashi (Varanasi) and ensures no soul is trapped by time after death.
Kalabhairava Ashtakam: Meaning and Commentary
Here’s the verse-by-verse breakdown of Kalabhairava Ashtakam in English, with meaning and spiritual insight:
Verse 1:
Meaning:
I sing the praise of Kalabhairava, Lord of Kashi, whose lotus feet are worshipped by Indra, whose sacred thread is a coiled snake, who wears the crescent moon on His head, is the ocean of compassion, praised by sages like Narada, and whose only attire is the directions themselves.
Spiritual Insight: This verse symbolizes total renunciation and divine power, with Kalabhairava appearing beyond materiality and ego.
Verse 2:
Meaning:
I bow to Kalabhairava, radiant like a million suns, who grants freedom from the cycle of birth and death, who is supreme and desire-fulfilling, has a blue throat (Neelkanth), three eyes, and wields a single-fanged weapon of immense power.
Spiritual Insight: Kalabhairava’s third eye denotes ultimate wisdom. He removes ignorance and blesses seekers with divine vision.
Verse 3:
Meaning:
Kalabhairava carries a trident, club, whip, and noose. He creates and governs time, has a body covered with ash, and is the eternal deity, unbound by health or illness. His divine dance is the cosmic Tandava.
Spiritual Insight: He transcends opposites — health, illness, life, death. His dance represents the rhythm of cosmic dissolution and creation.
Verse 4:
Meaning:
He is the giver of both material desires and spiritual liberation, beloved by His devotees, and appears in many forms throughout the universe. His golden waist-belt jingles with divine melody.
Spiritual Insight: Kalabhairava is both fearsome and deeply compassionate. He manifests in various forms to uplift His devotees.
Verse 5:
Meaning:
He protects righteousness (Dharma), destroys evil paths, liberates from karmic bondage, grants modesty, and adorns golden ornaments. He is splendid and divine in every limb.
Spiritual Insight: Kalabhairava is the karmic purifier. Chanting His name frees us from past sins and leads us on the path of Dharma.
Verse 6:
Meaning:
He wears radiant golden footwear, is timeless, without parallel, grants all desires yet is free from desire Himself. He destroys even the ego of death and liberates souls through His power.
Spiritual Insight: Lord Kalabhairava conquers death itself. By surrendering to Him, we become fearless.
Verse 7:
Meaning:
His mere roar can destroy all that Brahma created. One glance can eliminate sins. He rules over the universe, grants eight Siddhis (spiritual powers), and wears garlands of skulls.
Spiritual Insight: The skull garland symbolizes liberation from ego and worldly attachments. He grants supernatural powers to sincere seekers.
Verse 8:
Meaning:
Kalabhairava rules over spirits and ghosts, showers divine blessings, purifies even the dwellers of Kashi, reveals the path of righteousness, and governs the cosmic order.
Spiritual Insight: Even spirits and restless souls follow Kalabhairava. He is the ultimate law, balance, and justice.
Verse 9 – Phalashruti (Result of Recitation):
Meaning:
Those who recite these eight verses with devotion gain spiritual knowledge, detachment, peace, and a path toward Lord Shiva. It destroys sorrow, greed, attachment, anger, and delusion.
Spiritual Insight: Regular chanting transforms the mind and leads toward Moksha (liberation).
Benefits of Reciting Kalabhairava Ashtakam
- Removes fear of time and death
- Burns sins and bad karmas
- Calms anger, ego, and desires
- Protection from evil spirits and negativity
- Guidance toward Moksha (liberation)
- Removes financial obstacles
- Attracts grace of Lord Shiva
Best Time to Chant Kalabhairava Ashtakam
- Kalabhairav Jayanti
- Ashtami Tithi (8th day) of Krishna Paksha
- Midnight (Ratri) – The most powerful time
- Mondays and Saturdays
Recite with purity, devotion, and ideally in a temple or clean sacred space.
Kalabhairava Ashtakam PDF & Lyrics (Download)
👉 Click Here to Download Kalabhairava Ashtakam PDF with Lyrics & Meaning
Frequently Asked Questions About Kalabhairava Ashtakam (कालभैरवाष्टकम्)
What is Kalabhairava Ashtakam?
Kalabhairava Ashtakam (कालभैरवाष्टकम्) is a revered Sanskrit stotra composed by Adi Shankaracharya, consisting of 8 powerful verses plus a concluding verse (Phalashruti). It praises Lord Kalabhairava, a fierce form of Lord Shiva, known as the guardian deity of Kashi (Varanasi) and the destroyer of time, fear, ego, and sin.
What is the meaning of Kalabhairava Ashtakam?
Kalabhairava Ashtakam glorifies the divine attributes and powers of Kalabhairava, such as:
- Destroying the bondage of karma (Verse 5)
- Protecting dharma and removing adharma (Verse 5)
- Granting both material success and spiritual liberation (Verse 4)
- Removing fear of death and bestowing moksha (Verse 6)
Each verse offers symbolic and literal insights into Kalabhairava’s role in spiritual transformation.
Who composed Kalabhairava Ashtakam?
Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya, the great 8th-century Vedic scholar and philosopher, composed Kalabhairava Ashtakam. His works emphasize devotion (Bhakti), non-dualism (Advaita), and liberation (Moksha).
Why should one chant Kalabhairava Ashtakam?
Reciting Kalabhairava Ashtakam:
- Removes sins, fear, sorrow, and delusion (Verse 9)
- Destroys attachment, anger, greed, and depression
- Grants knowledge and spiritual freedom (ज्ञान-मुक्ति)
- Offers protection from negative energies, spirits, and death
What are the benefits of chanting Kalabhairava Ashtakam?
- Bhaya Nasha – Destroys fear, especially fear of death
- Paapa Nashana – Burns karmic sins
- Moksha Marg – Shows the path to liberation
- Raksha – Shields from evil spirits and dark forces
- Ishta Siddhi – Fulfills desires and spiritual goals
- Shiva Kripa – Brings blessings of Lord Shiva through Kalabhairava
When is the best time to chant Kalabhairava Ashtakam?
The most auspicious times to chant:
- Kalabhairav Jayanti (Ashtami of Krishna Paksha, Margashirsha month)
- Every Ashtami Tithi
- Midnight hours (Ratri Kaal) – Lord Bhairava’s ruling time
- Mondays and Saturdays – Sacred Shiva days
Daily recitation is also highly beneficial for protection and peace.
What language is Kalabhairava Ashtakam in?
Kalabhairava Ashtakam is composed in classical Sanskrit. Devotees often use transliterated versions (IAST) and translations in English or Hindi for understanding and chanting.
Can beginners chant Kalabhairava Ashtakam?
Yes. With devotion and correct pronunciation (using transliteration and audio guides), even beginners can chant it. Listening to expert recitations or chanting along with a Panditji helps maintain rhythm and clarity.
Is Kalabhairava a form of Shiva?
Yes. Kalabhairava is a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva, who governs time (Kaal), discipline, karma, and destruction. He upholds dharma, protects devotees, and ensures the liberation of souls.
What is the significance of the 9th verse of Kalabhairava Ashtakam?
The 9th verse (Phalashruti) highlights the benefits of chanting this hymn. It ensures that:
- One attains proximity to Kalabhairava’s feet
- All forms of suffering are removed
- Knowledge and moksha are achieved
Where can I find Kalabhairava Ashtakam lyrics with meaning?
👉 You can access the full Kalabhairava Ashtakam Lyrics in Sanskrit, Transliteration, and Meaning at
www.panditjionway.com – your spiritual guide online.
Summary for Devotees:
- Total Verses: 8 + 1 (Phalashruti)
- Author: Adi Shankaracharya
- Deity: Lord Kalabhairava (form of Shiva)
- Purpose: Protection, Moksha, Sin Removal, Fear Destruction
- Language: Sanskrit with Transliteration & Meaning available
Final Words – Why You Should Embrace Kalabhairava Ashtakam
In the chaotic times of Kaliyuga, Kalabhairava Ashtakam is your shield of divine protection, wisdom, and peace. Whether you seek spiritual growth, fearlessness, or inner transformation, this sacred hymn is a timeless blessing from the great Adi Shankara and Lord Shiva Himself.
