Khatu Shyam is also known as Barbarik, a great warrior and a grandson of Bhima had received a boon from Lord Krishna that he would be worshipped in Kaliyuga, under the name of Shyam. It is believed that he is an incarnation of Lord Krishna and is worshipped to seek his blessing for protection, success and peace. His worship is believed to be a path toward overcoming obstacles and fulfilling desires, making him one of the most loved deities in Hinduism, particularly in the Kaliyuga.
Significance and Benefits of Khatu Shyam Puja
Khatu Shyam is also referred to as the “God of Kalyug” as his followers believe that he responds quickly to their prayers and helps them to overcome life’s challenges.
- Worshipping Khatu Shyam ji is said to help overcome obstacles, providing relief from financial and personal challenges.
- Devotees experience a sense of peace, security and divine protection by regularly performing Khatu Shyam Puja.
- It is believed that those who worship Khatu Shyam ji with true devotion, he respond quickly to their prayers and help them to overcome life’s challenges.
Auspicious Day to Worship Khatu Shyam
Shukla Paksha Ekadashi, the 11th day of the waxing moon is especially considered an auspicious day to worship Khatu Shyam ji. Additionally, Wednesday and Saturday are also a good day to worship Khatu Shyam Ji as many devotees visit his temples or perform puja on these days to seek his grace and blessings.
Akhand Jyot Vidhi
The most important aspect of the Akhand Jyot is to ensure that the flame does not extinguish for the duration of the ritual, which could be for several hours, days, or longer depending on the devotee's commitment.
- Choose an auspicious day such as Shukla Paksha or a festival day dedicated to Khatu Shyam ji like Ekadashi.
- Choose a clean and sacred space in your home to perform the ritual.
- Place the idol of Khatu Shyam ji on the altar and red or yellow cloth.
- Begin the ritual by sitting in front of the altar taking water on your right hand and reciting small prayers to express your intention (Sankalp)
- Fill the Diya with Ghee or mustard oil and place a long wick in the diya. Light the diya with full devotion while chanting Khatu Shyam’s name or any mantra dedicated to him.
- Do not move diya once it is lit.
- Apply tilak on the deity image with Kumkum, Taldi and Chandan and then offer flowers, fruits and sweets.
- Perform Aarti by singing a devotional song dedicated to Khatu Shyam Ji.
- After that distribute prasad to all the family members, neighbours and friends.
- After the decided period of the Akhand Jyot, which could be for a few hours, a day, or even longer offer your final prayers and express gratitude to Khatu Shyam Ji for accepting your devotion.
- Extinguish the flame with care if you are concluding the ritual, or keep it burning as per your spiritual commitment.
Types of Khatu Shyam Puja
Khatu Shyam ji pujas highlight different aspects of the deity's significance in Hindu tradition. Here are the primary types of Lord Khatu Shyam Puja:
- Falgun Mela Puja
- Shyam Kund Puja
- Akhand Jyot Puja
- Shyam Jayanti
- Ekadashi Puja
Khatu Shyam ji Puja is believed to be a path toward overcoming obstacles and fulfilling desires, making him one of the most loved deities in Hinduism, particularly in the Kaliyuga.
