Maha Shivratri 2026 on February 15: Midnight Chaturdashi Makes It the Key Day

Maha Shivratri 2026, one of the most sacred festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva, has led to confusion this year over whether it falls on February 15 or February 16. The festival, also known as the “Great Night of Shiva”, symbolises spiritual awakening, inner transformation, and devotion and is widely observed across India with fasting, prayers and night-long vigils.

According to the Hindu calendar, the confusion arises because the Phalguna Krishna Chaturdashi Tithi begins on February 15 and ends on February 16. As per traditional belief, Maha Shivratri is observed on the day when the Chaturdashi Tithi prevails during Nishita Kaal (midnight). Based on this calculation, Drik Panchang confirms that Maha Shivratri will be celebrated on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

The auspicious Shubh Muhurat for Shiva Puja is spread across four night prahars. The first prahar puja will be held from 6:11 pm to 9:23 pm, the second from 9:23 pm to 12:35 am (February 16), the third from 12:35 am to 3:47 am, and the fourth from 3:47 am to 6:59 am on February 16. Devotees traditionally perform rituals during these time windows.

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The Puja Vidhi includes waking up early, bathing, and wearing clean clothes, followed by Abhishekam of the Shiva Linga using water, milk, curd, honey and ghee. Devotees offer Bilva leaves, fruits, flowers and incense, chant mantras such as “Om Namah Shivaya”, observe a strict fast, and remain awake throughout the night in meditation. The fast is typically broken after sunrise on February 16.

Maha Shivratri holds deep spiritual significance in Hindu belief, symbolising the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. It is associated with several legends, including Lord Shiva consuming poison to save the universe, performing the cosmic dance of creation and destruction, and his divine marriage to Goddess Parvati. Observing Maha Shivratri is believed to cleanse sins, foster spiritual growth and lead devotees towards moksha.

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