Mahashivratri 2026: Exact Date, Puja Timings & Nishith Kaal

Mahashivratri 2026 will be observed on Sunday, February 15, 2026. The most powerful time for पूजा, called Nishith Kaal, will be from 11:52 PM to 12:42 AM on the night of February 15–16. Devotees will fast during the day and offer prayers through the night in four prahars. This is the exact date and timing you need to know.

Mahashivratri is one of the most sacred Hindu festivals. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Temples stay open late. Bells ring. People chant “Om Namah Shivaya” softly, sometimes loudly. The whole night feels different.

Why Mahashivratri Matters So Much

Mahashivratri means “The Great Night of Shiva.” It marks the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Many also believe this night is when Shiva appeared as an endless pillar of light, known as the Jyotirlinga.

Devotees see this night as a time for inner change. You pray, you think, you sit quietly. Some people say even one sincere prayer on this night carries special blessings. The air in temples feels heavy but peaceful.

It is not just a ritual day. It feels personal. Almost intimate.

Mahashivratri 2026 Date and Day

In 2026, Mahashivratri falls on Sunday, February 15. The Chaturdashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha will be observed during the night. Devotees begin fasting early in the morning and continue until the next day after sunrise rituals.

Many check the calendar twice. Because timing matters here.

Four Prahar Puja Timings 2026

The night of Mahashivratri is divided into four prahars. Each prahar has its own importance. Worship is done in all four phases.

First Prahar will be from 6:01 PM to 9:09 PM on February 15.

Second Prahar will run from 9:09 PM to 12:17 AM.

Third Prahar will begin at 12:17 AM and continue till 3:25 AM on February 16.

Fourth Prahar will be from 3:25 AM to 6:33 AM.

Devotees try to perform Shiva puja in each prahar. Some stay awake fully. Some try, then fall asleep, then wake again. It happens.

Nishith Kaal: Most Powerful Time

Nishith Kaal is considered the most sacred time. In 2026, it will fall between 11:52 PM and 12:42 AM. This moment is believed to be when divine energy is strongest.

If someone cannot stay awake all night, they at least try to pray during Nishith Kaal. Offering milk, water, and bael leaves during this time is said to be highly auspicious.

Even a short, honest prayer is enough.

Simple Rituals You Can Follow

On Mahashivratri, devotees observe a fast. Some keep a strict fast without food. Others eat fruits, milk, and vrat-friendly food. Grains are usually avoided.

Abhishekam is an important ritual. The Shiva Linga is bathed with water, milk, honey, and ghee. Bael leaves are offered. Flowers too. Incense burns slowly nearby.

Many people visit temples. Some prefer praying at home. Chanting “Om Namah Shivaya” 108 times is common. It sounds simple, but when repeated slowly, it changes the mood inside.

Staying awake at night is also a tradition. This is called Jagran. Devotees sing bhajans, listen to katha, or meditate quietly.

Fasting Rules and Breaking the Fast

The fast usually begins at sunrise on February 15. Devotees avoid grains, onion, garlic, and regular meals. Fruits, milk, nuts, and sabudana dishes are commonly eaten.

The fast is broken the next morning after completing prayers. A light sattvik meal is taken. Nothing heavy. Just simple food.

Fasting is not just about food. It is about control. About slowing down.

Spiritual Meaning in Today’s Life

Mahashivratri still holds deep meaning today. In busy cities and small towns, people pause for this night. They reflect. They pray for strength. For peace.

Some seek forgiveness. Some seek clarity. Some don’t even know what they seek, but they sit quietly anyway.

This festival reminds people that silence is powerful. Discipline matters. Devotion heals something inside, even if you can’t explain it.

Mahashivratri 2026 will again bring that same energy. The same chants. The same bells echoing late into the night.

If you plan to observe it, mark February 15, 2026. Note the Nishith Kaal. Prepare your puja items early. And most important, keep your heart calm.

Because in the end, that is what this night really asks for.