National Desk: According to the Hindu calendar, Mahashivratri will be observed on February 15, 2026 (Sunday). This sacred festival symbolizes the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Religious beliefs emphasize the importance of fasting, night vigil (Jagran), and special prayers on this auspicious occasion.
As per the Panchang, the Chaturdashi Tithi will begin at 5:04 PM on February 15 and end at 5:34 PM on February 16. Worship performed during the Nishita Kaal (midnight period) is considered especially fruitful.
Scriptures mention that charity performed with devotion on this day brings happiness, peace, and prosperity into one’s life. Let’s take a look at the types of donations considered particularly auspicious on Mahashivratri.
1. Donation of Food and White Items – The Greatest Virtue
Offering food (Annadan) is regarded as the highest form of charity on Mahashivratri. Feeding the needy or donating raw grains such as rice, wheat, and sugar is considered highly auspicious.
Since Lord Shiva is believed to favor the color white, donating white food items like milk, curd, ghee, and other dairy products is considered especially beneficial. It is believed that such acts bring mental peace and sustained prosperity at home.
2. Donation of Clothes and Marital Items – Auspicious for Married Life
Donating clean clothes, particularly in white or yellow, is considered beneficial on this day. As the festival commemorates the divine marriage of Shiva and Parvati, offering married women items such as chunri (veil), bangles, sindoor, or bindis is believed to bring harmony and happiness to marital life.
3. Donation of Sesame Seeds and Jaggery – Relief from Difficulties
Donating black sesame seeds is considered effective in removing obstacles and accelerating stalled tasks. Offering jaggery and ghee is believed to enhance health and inner strength.
It is said that donating these items quietly to a temple or someone in need increases the spiritual merit.
The Right Time and Way to Donate
- Donations are considered best when made after worship or during the Pradosh Kaal.
- Maintain humility and a spirit of service while giving.
- Ensure that the donated items are clean and usable.
- Before donating, mentally dedicate the offering to Lord Shiva.
Religious belief holds that even a small act of charity done with sincerity can yield great spiritual rewards.
Mahashivratri is not limited to fasting and prayers alone; it also conveys a message of compassion and service. Donations made with faith and devotion are believed to bring positive energy and pave the way for new beginnings in life.
Leave feedback about this