Maha Shivratri 2026: All You Need To Know For The Holy Night

Maha Shivratri is one of the most important Hindu festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is celebrated with great devotion in Shiva temples across India. The festival marks the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Known as “The Great Night of Shiva,” it represents spiritual growth, inner peace, and the victory of good over evil. According to the Hindu calendar, Maha Shivratri will be celebrated on Sunday, February 15, this year.

Maha Shivratri 2026: Date and Time

According to the Hindu calendar, Maha Shivratri will be observed on Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi in the month of Phalguna.

Important Timings:

Shubh Muhurat: Nishith kaal and Puja time

The most important time for worship is the Nishith Kaal, which falls at midnight. It is believed that Lord Shiva appeared in the form of the Shiva Linga during this time.

Why Is Maha Shivratri Celebrated?

Maha Shivratri means “The Great Night of Shiva.” Unlike most Hindu festivals that are celebrated during the day, this festival is observed at night. It symbolises spiritual awakening and self-realisation.

Popular Stories Linked to Maha Shivratri 

Marriage of Shiva and Parvati:

It is believed that this day marks the wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Devotees pray for a happy married life and family well-being.

Samudra Manthan and Neelkanth:

During the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), a dangerous poison called Halahala came out. Lord Shiva drank the poison to save the world and held it in his throat, which turned blue. Because of this, he is called Neelkanth.

Shiva’s Cosmic Dance (Tandava):

Some traditions say this night marks Shiva’s divine dance, which represents creation, protection, and destruction of the universe.

Maha Shivratri 2026: Important Mantras

•    Om Namah Shivaya
•    Om Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushti-Vardhanam, Urvarukamiva Bandhanan Mrityormukshiya Mamritat
•    Om Tatpurushaya Vidmahe Mahadevaya Dhimahi, Tanno Rudrah Prachodayat
•    Om Mrityunjaya Mahadeva Trahi Mam Sharanagatam
•    Om Namo Bhagawate Dakshinamurtaye

Rudra Abhishek Vidhi: Items Required

To perform Rudra Abhishek, you will need:

•    Milk (preferably cow’s milk)
•    Yogurt
•    Ghee
•    Honey
•    Gangajal (holy water)
•    Sandalwood paste
•    Vibhuti (sacred ash)
•    Bel (Bilva) leaves
•    Kalava (sacred thread)
•    Copper or brass vessel
•    Dhatura flowers
•    White flowers

What To Do on Maha Shivratri

•    Wake up early during Brahma Muhurat.
•    Take a bath and wear clean clothes (white is considered auspicious).
•    Take a vow (Sankalp) to observe the fast.
•    Meditate and chant Shiva mantras.
•    Offer Bel leaves, Datura, white flowers, and fruits to the Shiva Linga.
•    Apply sandalwood paste instead of turmeric.
•    Perform puja during Nishita Kaal or throughout the four prahars (night periods).
•    If fasting, consume fruits, milk, and vrat-friendly food.
•    Maintain purity and self-discipline during the fast.

Maha Shivratri is a powerful night for prayer, meditation, and devotion. Devotees believe sincere worship on this day brings blessings, peace, and spiritual strength.

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