Monthly Fasts — Hindu Sacred Fast
Chaturdashi Vrat
Chaturdashi Vrat is observed on the 14th tithi of both the Shukla (bright) and Krishna (dark) fortnights every month. The Shukla Chaturdashi is associated with Lord Shiva and the manifestation of the Shivalinga, while the Krishna Chaturdashi — the night before Amavasya — is regarded as the most powerful night for Bhairav puja and Hanuman worship. Lord Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of Shiva who rules over the 14th night, is propitiated to remove fear, black magic, enemies, and spirit afflictions. In many traditions, Hanuman is also worshipped on Krishna Chaturdashi as he is said to be a great protector against negative forces that are strongest during the waning moon.
Last updated: 23 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Benefits
Removes fear and anxiety of all kinds, destroys the influence of black magic and evil spirits, defeats enemies and protects against harm, removes the effects of ancestral curses and karmic debts, grants courage and valor, purifies the home and family environment, and provides Shiva's grace through Bhairav — who is considered Shiva's ultimate protective form.
Procedure
On Shukla Chaturdashi, perform morning Shiva puja with milk abhishek, bilva leaves, and white flowers. On Krishna Chaturdashi, perform an evening or night puja — worship Bhairav with black sesame, mustard oil lamp, and black flowers; then worship Hanuman with sindoor, jasmine oil, and red garland. Recite Bhairav Chalisa or Kaal Bhairav Ashtakam for Bhairav worship, and Hanuman Chalisa for Hanuman. Offer liquor (or sugarcane juice as a substitute) to Bhairav as is traditional. Light mustard oil lamps at the entrance of the home.
When to Observe
Twice every month — Shukla Paksha Chaturdashi (14th day of the waxing moon) and Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi (14th day of the waning moon, the night before Amavasya). The most significant are: Masik Shivaratri (Krishna Chaturdashi every month), Mahashivratri (Phalguna Krishna Chaturdashi), Anant Chaturdashi (Bhadrapada Shukla), and Narak Chaturdashi (Kartik Krishna).
Fasting Rules
Observe a fast from sunrise to sunset or through the night on Krishna Chaturdashi. Avoid grains, lentils, non-vegetarian food, onion, and garlic. Many Bhairav devotees observe a strict fast with only water or milk until after the night puja. On Shukla Chaturdashi, a partial phalahar fast is more common. Consuming alcohol on Chaturdashi is ritually offered to Bhairav but should not be consumed by the devotee.
How to Break the Fast
On Shukla Chaturdashi, break the fast after sunset puja to Shiva with a simple vegetarian meal. On Krishna Chaturdashi, break the fast after the Bhairav night puja is complete — typically after midnight. Offer prasad to Bhairav (sesame laddoo or black til sweets) before eating. Distribute prasad to family and neighbors. It is traditional to leave some food offering at a crossroads after the puja as a symbolic offering to Bhairav who guards the boundaries.
FAQ
Q.What is Chaturdashi Vrat?
Chaturdashi Vrat is observed on the 14th tithi of both the Shukla (bright) and Krishna (dark) fortnights every month. The Shukla Chaturdashi is associated with Lord Shiva and the manifestation of the Shivalinga, while the Krishna Chaturdashi — the ni...
Q.What are the fasting rules for Chaturdashi Vrat?
Observe a fast from sunrise to sunset or through the night on Krishna Chaturdashi. Avoid grains, lentils, non-vegetarian food, onion, and garlic. Many Bhairav devotees observe a strict fast with only water or milk until after the night puja. On Shukla Chaturdashi, a partial phalahar fast is more common. Consuming alcohol on Chaturdashi is ritually offered to Bhairav but should not be consumed by the devotee.
Q.When should Chaturdashi Vrat be observed?
Twice every month — Shukla Paksha Chaturdashi (14th day of the waxing moon) and Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi (14th day of the waning moon, the night before Amavasya). The most significant are: Masik Shivaratri (Krishna Chaturdashi every month), Mahashivratri (Phalguna Krishna Chaturdashi), Anant Chaturdashi (Bhadrapada Shukla), and Narak Chaturdashi (Kartik Krishna).
Q.What are the benefits of Chaturdashi Vrat?
Removes fear and anxiety of all kinds, destroys the influence of black magic and evil spirits, defeats enemies and protects against harm, removes the effects of ancestral curses and karmic debts, grants courage and valor, purifies the home and family environment, and provides Shiva's grace through Bhairav — who is considered Shiva's ultimate protective form.