The fast for Maha Shivratri 2026 will be observed on February 15, a key festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees will fast and offer water, milk, and belpatra at Shiva temples. Specific timings for four prahars and nishith kaal have been set for worship.
Maha Shivratri ranks among the holiest festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva, observed on the chaturdashi of the Krishna paksha in Phalgun. Legend holds that Shiva appeared on this night, linked also to the divine union of Shiva and Parvati. This year, the fast will be held on February 15, 2026, a Sunday.
According to the Drik Panchang, the chaturdashi tithi begins on February 15 at 5:04 PM and ends on February 16 at 5:34 PM. The four prahar worship timings are as follows: first prahar from 6:37 PM on February 15, second from 9:45 PM that night, third from 12:53 AM after midnight, and fourth from 3:47 AM on February 16. Devotees can perform distinct pujas, chants, and abhisheks in each prahar.
Parana, or breaking the fast, is scheduled from 6:59 AM to 3:24 PM on February 16. The nishith kaal, considered the most auspicious for worship, runs from 12:09 AM to 1:01 AM on February 16.
The puja ritual involves offering water, milk, belpatra, and dhatura at Shiva temples from morning. At home, rudrabhishek and chanting the Mahamrityunjaya mantra are recommended. The domestic Shivling should not exceed thumb size, made of gold, silver, or stone; avoid steel or iron. Accompanying idols of Ganesha, Parvati, Kartikeya, and Nandi are advised.
