Shivaratri 2026 date
Maha Shivaratri 2026: Is It on February 15 or 16? Know Shubh Mahurat, Puja Vidhi and Rituals.
Maha Shivaratri 2026, one of (Shivaratri 2026 date) the most sacred and spiritually powerful Hindu festivals, is eagerly awaited by millions of devotees of Lord Shiva. The festival, also known as the “Great Night of Shiva,” celebrates the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It symbolizes spiritual awakening, inner transformation, and devotion.
This year, confusion has arisen regarding whether Maha Shivratri falls on February 15 or February 16, 2026. Many devotees have been searching online to confirm the exact date and auspicious timings. Here is a clear and complete explanation.
(Shivaratri 2026 date) When Is Maha Shivaratri 2026 February 15 or 16?
According to the Hindu Panchang (Shivaratri 2026 date) Maha Shivaratri will be observed on February 15, 2026. The festival is celebrated during the Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi of the Phalguna month (North Indian calendar) and the Magha month (South Indian calendar).
The Chaturdashi Tithi begins on February 15 and continues into the early hours of February 16. However, since the main Shivratri puja is performed during the night of February 15, devotees will observe the festival on February 15, 2026.
Maha Shivaratri is traditionally celebrated just before the arrival of spring and is believed to grant blessings such as the removal of sins, spiritual growth, and even moksha.
Maha Shivaratri 2026 Shubh Mahurat
Devotees perform night-long worship divided into four prahars. The auspicious puja timings are:
Ratri First Prahar Puja: 06:11 PM – 09:23
Ratri Second Prahar Puja: 09:23 PM – 12:35 AM (Feb 16)
Ratri Third Prahar Puja: 12:35 AM – 03:47 AM (Feb 16)
Ratri Fourth Prahar Puja: 03:47 AM – 06:59 AM (Feb 16)
(Shivaratri 2026 date) Each prahar is considered highly auspicious for offering prayers to Lord Shiva.
Significance of Maha Shivaratri
Maha Shivaratri holds immense spiritual importance in Hinduism. It commemorates the divine marriage of Shiva and Parvati and is also believed to be the night when Lord Shiva performed the cosmic dance, the Tandava.
Devotees observe fasting and remain awake all night, chanting Shiva mantras and meditating. It is believed that sincere devotion on this night helps cleanse negative karma and brings peace, prosperity, and enlightenment.
Maha Shivaratri Puja Vidhi and Rituals
Observing proper (Shivaratri 2026 date) rituals enhances the spiritual benefits of the festival. Here is the traditional puja method:
1. Morning Purification
Wake up early before sunrise, take a bath, and wear fresh, clean clothes. Many devotees visit Shiva temples to begin their prayers.
2. Abhishekam
The Shiva Linga is bathed with sacred offerings like water, milk, honey, curd, and ghee. This ritual symbolizes purification of the soul.
3. Offerings to Lord Shiva
Offer Bilva leaves, flowers, fruits, incense sticks, and sandalwood paste. Bilva leaves are considered especially dear to Lord Shiva
.4. Mantra Chanting
Chant powerful Shiva mantras such as “Om Namah Shivaya” and recite Shiv Chalisa or Rudram for spiritual upliftment.
5. Night-Long Vigil
Devotees stay awake throughout the night, singing bhajans and meditating. The night vigil represents overcoming darkness and ignorance.
6. Breaking the Fast
(Shivaratri 2026 date) The fast is traditionally broken after sunrise on February 16 with light, satvik food.
How Maha Shivratri Is Celebrated Across India
Across India, Maha Shivratri is celebrated with grand temple decorations, processions, and devotional music. Famous Shiva temples like Kashi Vishwanath, Somnath, and Kedarnath witness massive gatherings of devotees.
In many regions, people observe strict fasting, consuming only fruits and milk. Cultural programs and community prayers add to the festive spirit.
Conclusion
(Shivaratri 2026 date) Maha Shivaratri 2026 will be celebrated on February 15, with sacred night-long worship extending into February 16. Observing this auspicious festival with devotion and discipline is believed to bring divine blessings, spiritual clarity, and inner peace.
Whether you are fasting, chanting mantras, or visiting a temple, Maha Shivaratri offers a powerful opportunity to connect with Lord Shiva and embrace spiritual transformation.
