Maha Shivratri 2026: Date, Puja Timings and Spiritual Significance

Mahashivratri is one of the most auspicious festivals in India. It is the day that marks the divine and sacred union of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva. It represents balance, harmony and cosmic energy. The festival is during the Magha month and is considered to bring spiritual cleansing, blessings and inner peace.
Each year, the followers celebrate this religious night by fasting, praying and chanting Har Har Mahadev. As Maha Shivratri 2026 is just around the corner many devotees are confused about the date of the festival. Would it be on February 15 or on February 16?




Mahashivratri will be observed on 15 February 2026 but the Chaturdashi tithi will continue until the evening of 16 February. The confusion is due to the fact that the Chaturdashi tithi starts at 5:04 PM on February 15 and finishes at 5:34 PM on February 16. Hence Maha Shivratri is celebrated on February 15 as the festival is mostly celebrated at night.

The traditional puja for Maha Shivaratri is done during the four Ratri Prahars of the night. Worshiping at the Nishita Kaal is considered very powerful.

• Chaturdashi Begins: February 15, 5:04 PM
• Chaturdashi Ends: February 16, 5:34 PM
• Nishita Kaal Puja: 12:09 AM to 1:01 AM (Feb 16)
• Parana Time: 6:59 AM to 3:24 PM (Feb 16)

Maha Shivratri is the day that signifies the divine union of Shiva and Shakti. Lord Shiva is the one who destroys evil but is also the most generous. He is referred to by scriptures as Trikaal Darshi or one who can view past, present and future.
People offer bel patra, milk or water to Lord Shiva with devotion and pure hearts. It invites blessing, spiritual purity and forgiveness for sins.

On Maha Shivratri devotees fast and perform Rudrabhishek. Offerings usually include:

• Water, milk, honey, and curd
• Bel patra and white flowers
• Incense, diya, and sacred ash

They also chant Har Har Mahadev and Om Namah Shivaya. Families perform simple puja at home and take part in temples or attend night long bhajans.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When is Maha Shivratri in 2026?
   Maha Shivratri will be celebrated on 15 February 2026.
2. Is fasting compulsory on Maha Shivratri?
   Fasting is optional but many devotees observe it for spiritual cleansing and devotion.
3. Why is there confusion about Maha Shivratri 2026 date?
   The confusion happens because Chaturdashi tithi starts on February 15 evening and ends on February 16 evening.