Festivals
Maha Shivratri 2026: Date, Puja Muhurat, Vidhi & Significance
Maha Shivratri 2026: Date, Puja Muhurat, Vidhi & Significance
Maha Shivratri, the “Great Night of Shiva,” is one of the most significant festivals in Hinduism dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is celebrated annually on the Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi of Phalguna month.
Unlike other festivals celebrated during the day, Maha Shivratri is a night of vigil and meditation. It marks the convergence of Shiva and Shakti. It is believed that on this night, the planetary positions align in such a way that there is a natural upsurge of energy in the human system.
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Maha Shivratri 2026 Date & Muhurat
In 2026, Maha Shivratri falls on Monday, February 16, 2026. Since it falls on a Monday (Somvar), the day dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is considered highly auspicious.
| Event | Date & Time (IST) |
|---|---|
| Maha Shivratri Date | February 16, 2026 (Monday) |
| Nishita Kaal Puja Time | 12:09 AM to 01:01 AM (Feb 17) |
| Chaturdashi Tithi Begins | 04:52 AM on Feb 16, 2026 |
| Chaturdashi Tithi Ends | 03:22 AM on Feb 17, 2026 |
| Parana Time (Fast Breaking) | 06:57 AM to 03:22 PM (Feb 17) |
*Note: Timings are based on New Delhi IST. Please consult your local Panchang for exact city-wise timings.
Four Pahar Puja Timings
For devotees performing the night-long vigil, the puja is divided into four Prahar (quarters):
- First Prahar: 06:25 PM to 09:30 PM (Feb 16)
- Second Prahar: 09:30 PM to 12:35 AM (Feb 17)
- Third Prahar: 12:35 AM to 03:40 AM (Feb 17)
- Fourth Prahar: 03:40 AM to 06:45 AM (Feb 17)
Significance of Maha Shivratri
The Great Night of Shiva: Maha Shivratri commemorates the wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It represents the union of Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (nature).
The Legend of Neelkanth: It is also believed that on this night, Lord Shiva drank the deadly Halahala poison that emerged from the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) to save the universe. His neck turned blue, earning him the name Neelkanth.
Maha Shivratri Puja Vidhi (Rituals)
- Fasting (Vrat): Devotees observe a strict fast (Nirjala or Phalahar) to control the senses and focus on meditation.
- Abhishekam: The Shiva Linga is bathed with water, milk, curd, honey, ghee, and sugar (Panchamrit). This cleanses the soul.
- Offerings: Offer Bel Patra (Wood apple leaves), Dhatura, Bhasma (sacred ash), and white flowers. Note: Do not offer Tulsi or Kumkum to Lord Shiva.
- Mantra Chanting: Continuously chant “Om Namah Shivaya” throughout the night.
- Jagran: Staying awake all night (Jagran) helps overcome darkness and ignorance.
Powerful Shiva Mantras
Panchakshari Mantra:
“Om Namah Shivaya”
Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra:
“Om Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushti-Vardhanam
Urvarukamiva Bandhanan Mrityor Mukshiya Mamritat”
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Frequently Asked Questions
Maha Shivratri falls on Monday, February 16, 2026.
You can consume non-grain foods like fruits, milk, sabudana (tapioca), potatoes, and dry fruits. Avoid salt, onions, and garlic.
The trifoliate Bel Patra represents the three eyes of Lord Shiva and the three Gunas (Sattva, Rajas, Tamas). Offering it signifies the surrender of our nature to the Lord.
