Confusion continues among devotees over whether Mahashivratri 2026 falls on February 15 or 16, as the Hindu Panchang clarifies the correct date
Mahashivratri 2026
Mahashivratri 2026: This festival is of immense significance to Sanatan Dharma, as it celebrates the holy union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti. Each year, devotees celebrate this mighty night by fasting, praying, and worshipping throughout the night. As the date nears, many people are left puzzled about whether Mahashivratri will take place on February 15 or February 16.
As per the Hindu Panchang, Mahashivratri will be celebrated on Sunday, February 15, 2026.
Mahashivratri is celebrated on the Chaturdashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha. While North India follows the Phalguna month and South India observes it during Magha, the festival date remains the same nationwide.
Mahashivratri Date: Sunday, February 15, 2026
Chaturdashi Tithi Begins: 05:04 PM on February 15, 2026
Chaturdashi Tithi Ends: 05:34 PM on February 16, 2026
The vrat and night-long worship are performed when the Chaturdashi Tithi is active.
Nishita Kaal, or midnight, is considered the most sacred time for Shiva worship. Devotees believe Lord Shiva manifested as the Shivling during this period.
Nishita Kaal Puja Time: 12:09 AM to 01:01 AM (February 16)
Total Duration: 51 minutes
Shivratri Parana Time: 06:59 AM to 03:24 PM (February 16)
Important Note: Devotees must break the fast after sunrise on February 16 but before the Chaturdashi Tithi ends to receive the full spiritual benefits of the Shivratri vrat.
Many devotees observe Jagran and perform puja in four parts of the night, known as Prahars. Below is the 4 Prahar Puja schedule based on New Delhi time:
First Prahar: 06:11 PM to 09:23 PM (Feb 15)
Second Prahar: 09:23 PM to 12:35 AM (Feb 15–16)
Third Prahar: 12:35 AM to 03:47 AM (Feb 16)
Fourth Prahar: 03:47 AM to 06:59 AM (Feb 16)
Each Prahar is dedicated to specific rituals, mantras, and offerings to Lord Shiva.
Observing Mahashivratri vrat requires discipline, devotion, and purity of mind and body. The ritual process begins a day earlier.
Devotees should consume only one simple meal on this day.
After completing morning rituals on February 15, devotees take a Sankalp, pledging to observe a full-day fast and night vigil with devotion.
A second bath is taken in the evening before visiting the temple or performing Shiva Puja at home.
Food is strictly avoided throughout the day and night. Worship continues during the night, and the fast is broken the next day during the Parana time.
By observing Mahashivratri with proper vrat rules, correct Panchang timings, and sincere devotion, devotees believe they receive peace, prosperity, and spiritual upliftment. This sacred night is considered ideal for meditation, self-reflection, and seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings.
