Maha Shivratri 2026: Is it on February 15 or 16? Know the difference between Shivratri and Maha Shivratri.
vrushangshah93@gmail.com Maha Shivratri, famously known as The Great Night of Shiva, is a deeply spiritual occasion and celebrated on Sunday, February 15. While the tithi continues into the early hours of February 16.
February 15 is the main day of fasting and worship. As Maha Shivratri 2026 approaches, devotees are preparing to spend the night in prayer and devotion. If you’re observing the festival, mark your calendar for February 15 night and celebrate this divine occasion with faith and gratitude.
Why is Maha Shivratri so special?
Maha Shivratri is not just another festival, it is believed to be the most powerful spiritual night of the year.
It is said that Lord Shiva performs the Tandava on this night. Many also believe this is the night when Shiva and Goddess Parvati were married.
Lord Shiva, is known for his simplicity and compassion. Devotees believe he gets pleased easily and fulfils sincere wishes. Even a small offering made with pure devotion is considered enough to seek his blessings.
Temples remain open all night, and chants of “Har Har Mahadev” echo across the country.
Maha Shivratri 2026 Puja Timings (Ratri Prahar)
Here are the key puja muhurats for night worship:
First Prahar: 06:11 PM to 09:23 PM
Second Prahar: 09:23 PM to 12:35 AM
Third Prahar: 12:35 AM to 03:47 AM
Fourth Prahar: 03:47 AM to 06:59 AM
Nishita Kaal Puja: 12:09 AM to 01:01 AM
Parana Time: 06:59 AM to 03:24 PM (February 16)
Devotees usually perform abhishek, offer bel patra, milk, honey and water, and chant “Om Namah Shivaya” throughout the night and celebrated with full of heart.
Shivratri and Mahashivratri are two names that sound similar but hold different meanings and significance. While both are dedicated to Lord Shiva, they aren’t the same. Many people assume they’re interchangeable, but that’s far from the truth.
WHAT IS MAHA SHIVRATRI?
Mahashivratri, meaning “the Great Night of Shiva,” is the most important of all Shivratris and is celebrated once a year in the month of Phalguna.
According to Hindu mythology, Maha Shivratri marks the divine marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Some beliefs also associate it with the night Shiva performed the Tandava, symbolizing creation and destruction.
WHAT IS SHIVRATRI?
Shivratri means “the night of Shiva.” It is observed every month on the Chaturdashi Tithi (14th day) of the Krishna Paksha, just before the new moon.
These monthly Shivratris are considered auspicious for prayers, fasting, and worship of Lord Shiva. Devotees usually perform simple rituals like offering milk, water, and bel leaves to the Shivling and chanting mantras.
KEY DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SHIVRATRI AND MAHA SHIVRATRI
The primary difference lies in significance and scale. While Shivratri occurs every month and involves modest observances, Maha Shivratri is a grand spiritual event marked by night-long vigils, strict fasting, and temple visits. Devotees stay awake throughout the night, chanting “Om Namah Shivaya” and offering Panchamrit to the Shivling.
People celebrated this day by visiting Jyotirlingas and take blessings of Lord Shiva.
Wishing you all a very Happy Maha Shivratri. Har Har Mahadev.
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