National Desk: Mahashivratri is considered one of the most sacred and spiritually rewarding festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is not just a day of fasting, but a powerful occasion symbolizing the divine union of Shiva and Shakti and inner spiritual awakening. In 2026, Mahashivratri will be observed on Sunday, February 15. Worship, chanting, and fasting performed on this auspicious day are believed to please Lord Shiva quickly and fulfill devotees’ wishes.
Mahashivratri 2026: Correct Date — February 15 or 16?
According to the Hindu Panchang:
- Phalguna Krishna Chaturdashi begins: February 15, 2026, at 5:04 PM
- Chaturdashi ends: February 16, 2026, at 5:34 PM
As per scriptural rules, Mahashivratri is observed on the day when Chaturdashi Tithi prevails during Nishita Kaal (midnight). Since Chaturdashi is present during midnight on February 15, the main fast and worship will be performed on February 15, 2026.
Nishita Kaal Puja Muhurat
- Approximately from 12:09 AM to 1:01 AM (midnight of February 16)
Parana (Breaking the Fast) Time
- February 16, from 6:59 AM to 3:24 PM
Religious and Spiritual Significance of Mahashivratri
According to Hindu scriptures, this is the day when Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were married. Spiritual practices performed on Mahashivratri are believed to yield manifold results compared to ordinary days. Devotees observe fasts, stay awake throughout the night, and perform Shiva worship during the four prahars (phases of the night).
It is believed that sincere worship on this day destroys sins, brings mental peace, prosperity, and leads toward liberation (moksha). If performing worship in all four prahars is not possible, at least one prahar puja should be done with devotion.
Mahashivratri 2026 Puja Vidhi (Ritual Method)
- Take an early morning bath, wear clean clothes, and take a vow of fasting
- Install a Shivling or an image/idol of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati
- Perform Abhishek with milk, curd, honey, sugar, and Gangajal
- Perform worship during the four prahars:
- First Prahar: 6:11 PM – 9:23 PM
- Second Prahar: 9:23 PM – 12:35 AM
- Third Prahar: 12:35 AM – 3:47 AM
- Fourth Prahar: 3:47 AM – 6:59 AM
- Offer Bilva leaves, bhang, datura, and flowers
- Chant the mantra “Om Namah Shivaya”
- Observe night-long vigil with bhajans and kirtans
- Complete the puja in the morning and break the fast at the prescribed time
Essential Items for Mahashivratri Puja
- Bilva leaves, datura, bhang
- Shivling or idol/image of Shiva-Parvati
- Garland of madar or other flowers
- Shami leaves, white flowers, or lotus seeds
- Sandalwood paste, saffron
- Akshat (uncooked rice), sacred thread (Janeu)
- Betel leaves, areca nut, cardamom, cloves
- Perfume, sacred ash (bhasma), protective thread
- Kusha grass mat
- Abhishek items: milk, curd, honey, sugar, Gangajal
- Clothes for Lord Shiva
- Red chunari and adornment items for Goddess Parvati
- Fruits, sweets, or halwa (offering)
- Havan material (if performing havan)
Mahashivratri 2026 is an ideal occasion for spiritual purification, meditation, and deep devotion. A fast and worship performed with faith and discipline bring positive energy and peace into life. On this sacred day, chant “Om Namah Shivaya” and seek the divine blessings of Mahadev.
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