Mahashivratri, the Great Night of Shiva, is celebrated annually on the Chaturdashi Tithi of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Phalguna. For the year 2026, astronomical calculations confirm that the Chaturdashi Tithi will commence at 05:04 PM on February 15 and conclude at 05:34 PM on February 16. Since the core rituals of Mahashivratri, including the Nishita Kaal Puja, are performed during the night when the Chaturdashi Tithi is prevailing, the festival will be officially observed on February 15, 2026. Unlike many other Hindu festivals that follow the Udayatithi (sunrise) rule, Mahashivratri prioritizes the night-prevailing lunar date for its spiritual observances.
Schedule for the Four Watches of the Night
The worship of Lord Shiva during Mahashivratri is divided into four distinct watches, known as 'Pahars,' each carrying unique spiritual significance. According to the scheduled timings, the First Pahar Puja will take place from 06:00 PM to 09:00 PM on February 15. The Second Pahar Puja is set for 09:00 PM to 12:00 AM. The Third Pahar, which includes the highly auspicious Nishita Kaal, will be observed from 12:00 AM to 03:00 AM. Finally, the Fourth Pahar Puja will occur from 03:00 AM to 06:00 AM on the morning of February 16. Devotees believe that performing Abhishekam during all four watches liberates the soul from the cycle of birth and death.
Ritualistic Procedures and Sacred Offerings
The puja vidhi for Mahashivratri involves meticulous preparation and devotion. Devotees begin the day with a ritual bath and a pledge (Sankalpa) to observe the fast with sincerity. The primary ritual involves the 'Panchamrit Abhishekam' of the Shiva Lingam, using a mixture of milk, curd, honey, ghee, and sugar, followed by a continuous stream of Ganga water. Essential offerings include Belpatra (wood apple leaves), Dhatura, Shami leaves, white flowers, and sandalwood paste. Chanting the sacred mantra 'Om Namah Shivaya' or the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra throughout the night is considered highly meritorious. Many devotees also participate in 'Jagran,' staying awake all night to sing hymns and recite the Shiva Purana.
Mythological Origins and Divine Union
Mahashivratri marks the celestial union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, representing the convergence of consciousness and energy. According to the Shiva Purana, this is also the night when Lord Shiva manifested as the 'Jyotirlinga'—a pillar of infinite light—for the first time to settle a dispute between Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu. This event signifies the emergence of the formless Supreme Reality into a tangible form. In the city of Kashi (Varanasi), the festival is celebrated with the 'Shiv Barat,' a grand procession that reenacts the marriage ceremony of the deities, drawing thousands of pilgrims from across the globe.
Cultural Observances and Spiritual Impact
Beyond the rituals, Mahashivratri is a period of deep meditation and introspection. From a yogic perspective, the planetary positions on this night are said to cause a natural upsurge of energy in the human system. Because of this, staying awake with a vertical spine is recommended to harness these cosmic energies. ' The festival transcends social boundaries, as people from all walks of life gather to offer prayers, emphasizing the universal nature of Lord Shiva as 'Ashutosh'—the one who is easily pleased.
DISCLAIMER : This report is based on traditional liturgical calendars and religious texts. Readers are encouraged to consult with local priests or Vedic experts for specific regional variations in observance and timing.