Maha Shivratri 2026: Date, Puja Vidhi and Significance
Maha Shivratri, the Great Night of Shiva, is observed on the 14th night (Chaturdashi) of the dark fortnight of Phalguna. In 2026, it falls on 26 February (Thursday). It is one of the most sacred nights in the Hindu calendar, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
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About Maha Shivratri
Maha Shivratri means "The Great Night of Shiva." It is observed on the 14th night of the dark fortnight (Krishna Chaturdashi) of Phalguna. This night is considered the convergence of Shiva and Shakti. Devotees observe a strict fast, perform four-session puja through the night, and chant "Om Namah Shivaya." Maha Shivratri is different from the monthly Shivratri — it occurs once a year and holds supreme significance.
Significance of Maha Shivratri
Maha Shivratri is one of the most sacred nights in the Hindu calendar. The word "Shivratri" literally means "the night of Shiva." The prefix "Maha" (great) distinguishes this annual occasion from the monthly Shivratri.
Multiple Puranas describe different meanings of this night. In the Shiva Purana, it is said that Brahma and Vishnu were in dispute about their supremacy when Shiva appeared as an infinite column of light. Neither could find its beginning or end. This manifestation — the Jyotirlinga — is what Shiva devotees honour on Maha Shivratri.
Another tradition holds that Maha Shivratri marks the night of the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva — the Tandava — which represents the rhythm of creation and destruction in the universe.
Maha Shivratri Puja Vidhi
Take a bath before sunrise
Devotees wake before sunrise, take a bath, and wear clean clothes — preferably white or light-coloured.
Set up the Shiva Linga
At home or temple, place a Shiva Linga on a clean surface. Offer bel patra (Bilva leaves), water, milk, honey, curd and gangajal.
Four-session worship (Prahar Puja)
The puja is performed in four sessions through the night — at midnight, 3 AM, 6 AM and after sunrise. Each prahar includes bathing the Linga with milk, curd, honey, ghee and sugar water, followed by offering bel patra.
Observe fast
A strict fast is observed through the day and night. Some devotees observe nirjala (waterless) fast; others consume fruits and milk.
Chant Om Namah Shivaya
Chant "Om Namah Shivaya" 108 times or throughout the night. Recite the Shiva Chalisa or Rudrashtakam.
Fasting and Traditions
Allowed During Fast (Upvaas Foods)
- •Milk and milk products
- •Fruits
- •Sabudana (sago)
- •Kuttu flour (buckwheat)
- •Singhara flour
- •Rock salt (Sendha Namak)
- •Potatoes
Traditional Offerings to Shiva
- •Bel Patra (Bilva leaves) — most important
- •Dhatura flowers
- •Blue water lily (Neelkamal)
- •Milk (Abhishek)
- •Honey
- •Panchamrit (milk + curd + ghee + honey + sugar)
ℹ️ Fasting rules vary by tradition and region. Consult a family elder or priest for specific guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Source Details
Date Source
Hindu Panchang — Phalguna Krishna Chaturdashi
Last Reviewed
5 June 2026
Verification Status
Date from Hindu Panchang · 17 February 2026
Applicable Region
Pan-India