Maha Shivratri is one of the most auspicious Hindu festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva, celebrated on the 14th day (Chaturdashi) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) of the Phalguna month. It commemorates the divine marriage of Shiva and Parvati, Shiva’s cosmic dance (Tandava), his manifestation as the Jyotirlinga, and the night when spiritual energy for awakening and liberation is at its peak.
Maha Shivratri is a major religious festival in Hinduism, symbolizing the worship of Lord Shiva and spiritual progress. On this day, devotion to Lord Shiva, fasting, prayers, and keeping vigil are believed to bring forgiveness of sins, peace, prosperity, and blessings.
In 2026, Maha Shivratri falls on Sunday, February 15, 2026.
Maha Shivratri ka Shubh Muhurt
Timings may vary slightly depending on location and the Panchang (local calendar), but widely followed timings from reliable sources like Drik Panchang include:
Chaturdashi Tithi Begins: Approximately 5:04 PM on February 15, 2026.
Chaturdashi Tithi Ends: Approximately 5:34 PM on February 16, 2026.
Nishita Kal Puja (Most auspicious midnight time for Shiva Abhishek and main rituals): Approximately 12:09 AM to 1:01 AM on February 16, 2026 (Duration ~51–56 minutes; some sources indicate 12:11 AM–12:59 AM or similar variations).
Night Prahar Puja Timings (The night is divided into four parts for puja):
First Prahar: ~6:11 PM to 9:23 PM (February 15).
Second Prahar: ~9:23 PM to 12:35 AM (February 16). Third quarter: ~12:35 AM to ~3:50–4:24 AM (February 16).
Fourth quarter: Until sunrise (~6:59 AM on February 16). Parana time (time to break the fast): After sunrise on February 16, typically from ~6:59 AM until noon (e.g., 1:04 PM or 3:24 PM depending on the source).
For the exact local time in Delhi or your city, refer to a reliable Panchang app/site (e.g., Drik Panchang) closer to the date, as minor variations occur.
Significance
It symbolizes the union of Shiva (consciousness) and Shakti (energy/Parvati).
This is believed to be the night when Shiva performed the cosmic dance (Tandava) or manifested as an infinite Jyotirlinga to resolve the dispute between Brahma and Vishnu.
The planetary positions facilitate the flow of natural energy – ideal for meditation, yoga, and spiritual practices.
Devotees seek forgiveness, fulfillment of desires, and Moksha (liberation) through devotion.
Rituals and Fasting (Vrat) Rules
Fasting: Many observe a strict fast (Nirjala or Falahar). Rules include:
Avoid grains, salt (some allow rock salt), non-vegetarian food, onion/garlic.
Allowed: Fruits, milk, nuts, sago, makhana, yogurt, tea/coffee (no stimulants for those observing a strict fast).
Some observe a partial fast or one meal a day; the focus is on purity and devotion, not hardship.
Break the fast (Parana) the next day after puja/sunrise.
Puja Procedure:
Take an early bath, wear clean clothes (preferably white/blue/black).
Visit a Shiva temple for Abhishekam (offer milk, water, honey, and bel leaves to the Shivling). Offer Bael leaves, Datura flowers, cannabis (symbolically), fruits, and sweets.
Chant mantras such as “Om Namah Shivaya,” Rudrabhishek, or the Shiva Tandava Stotram.
Stay awake all night (Jagran) with bhajans, kirtans, and meditation.
The four-part puja includes offerings and prayers in each section.
Celebrations: Temple visits (such as major temples like Kedarnath, Kashi Vishwanath, or local temples), all-night satsangs, fairs, and cultural programs. At the Isha Yoga Center, Sadhguru hosts grand live events with music and meditation.
This year (2026) falls on a Sunday – expect huge crowds at temples across India, especially in Delhi-NCR. Plan ahead or consider joining virtual/live streams if possible. To observe the fast safely, drink plenty of water and consult a doctor if needed.