shivaratri 2026

What Happened

Mahashivratri, a significant festival in Sanatan Dharma, will be celebrated on Sunday, February 15, 2026. This festival honors the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti, with devotees engaging in fasting, prayers, and night-long worship. The Chaturdashi Tithi, which is crucial for the observance, begins at 5:04 PM on February 15 and concludes at 5:34 PM on February 16, 2026.

Why It Matters

The festival holds immense importance for millions of devotees across India, as it symbolizes devotion and spiritual growth. Observances include various fasting practices, with some devotees choosing complete abstinence while others may consume fruits. The most sacred time for worship, known as Nishita Kaal, occurs between 12:09 AM and 1:01 AM on February 16, when devotees believe Lord Shiva manifests as the Shivling.

What’s Next

As the date approaches, preparations for Mahashivratri will intensify, with devotees planning their fasting and prayer rituals. Guidelines for fasting and puja timings will be shared widely to ensure that participants can observe the festival with the utmost devotion and purity.