Mahashivratri, meaning “The Great Night of Shiva”, is one of the most sacred festivals in Hinduism. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this spiritually powerful night is observed with fasting, meditation, night-long vigil, and special puja rituals. In 2026, Mahashivratri has generated widespread interest due to confusion surrounding its exact date.
Here is everything devotees need to know about Mahashivratri 2026, including the correct date, puja timings, rituals, fasting rules, spiritual importance, and regional celebrations.
Mahashivratri 2026 Date: February 15 or February 16?
According to the Hindu lunar calendar, Mahashivratri is observed on the Chaturdashi tithi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Phalguna.
In 2026:
- Chaturdashi tithi begins: Evening of 15 February 2026
- Chaturdashi tithi ends: Afternoon of 16 February 2026
Since Mahashivratri is primarily a night-time observance, the festival will be celebrated on Sunday, 15 February 2026. The fast is broken the next day, on 16 February, after sunrise and the prescribed parana time.
Mahashivratri 2026 Puja Timings & Night Worship
Mahashivratri worship is performed throughout the night, which is divided into four Prahars. Each prahar is considered auspicious for offering prayers to Lord Shiva.
- First Prahar: After sunset on 15 February
- Second Prahar: Late evening
- Third Prahar (Nishita Kaal): Around midnight (most sacred)
- Fourth Prahar: Early morning hours
Devotees who cannot stay awake all night may perform puja once in the evening with full devotion.
Mahashivratri Puja Vidhi: Step-by-Step Rituals
Mahashivratri puja can be performed at home or in temples. The focus is on purity, devotion, and meditation.
Simple Puja Method
- Wake up early, bathe, and wear clean or traditional clothes
- Take a sankalp (vow) to observe the fast
- Perform Shivling Abhishek using:
- Water
- Milk
- Curd
- Honey
- Ghee
- Offer bilva leaves, white flowers, fruits, incense, and a diya
- Chant “Om Namah Shivaya” or the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra
- Observe Jagran (night vigil) with bhajans or meditation
- Break the fast the next day after sunrise
Mahashivratri 2026 Fasting Rules
Fasting on Mahashivratri symbolizes control over the senses and purification of the body and mind.
Types of Fasts
- Nirjala Fast: No food or water (for experienced devotees)
- Phalahar Fast: Fruits, milk, and water
- Partial Fast: One sattvic meal
Allowed Foods
- Fruits, milk, curd
- Sabudana, peanuts
- Rock salt (sendha namak)
Foods to Avoid
- Grains and pulses
- Onion and garlic
- Alcohol, tobacco, and non-vegetarian food
Devotees are encouraged to maintain purity in thoughts, speech, and actions throughout the day.
Spiritual Significance of Mahashivratri
Mahashivratri holds profound spiritual meaning in Hindu philosophy:
- It marks the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati
- Symbolizes the victory of consciousness over ignorance
- Considered the most powerful night for meditation and self-realization
- Believed to help devotees overcome negative karma and attain inner peace
Staying awake all night represents spiritual awakening and heightened awareness.
How Mahashivratri Is Celebrated Across India
Mahashivratri is celebrated with regional variations across India:
- North India: Grand temple rituals, Ganga aarti, night-long bhajans
- South India: Elaborate abhishekam ceremonies and temple processions
- West India: Fasting, Rudrabhishek, and community prayers
- East India: Household worship and local temple fairs
- Kashmir: Celebrated as Herath, rooted in ancient Shaivite traditions
Despite regional differences, devotion to Lord Shiva remains the central theme.
Why Mahashivratri 2026 Is Special
Mahashivratri is not just a festival but a night of discipline, devotion, and transformation. It encourages introspection, surrender, and spiritual growth. For millions of devotees, it is a reminder to rise above material attachments and seek inner balance.
FAQs on Mahashivratri 2026
When is Mahashivratri 2026 celebrated?
Mahashivratri will be observed on Sunday, 15 February 2026.
Can Mahashivratri puja be done at home?
Yes, simple Shiv puja can be performed at home with devotion.
Is fasting compulsory on Mahashivratri?
Fasting is optional but spiritually beneficial.
When should the Mahashivratri fast be broken?
The fast should be broken on 16 February 2026, after sunrise.