February 15, 2026 • Sunday
Chaturdashi, Krishna Paksha, Phalguna Month
Date
February 15, 2026
Tithi
Chaturdashi, Krishna Paksha, Phalguna Month
Muhurat
Nishita Kaal (Most Auspicious): Feb 15, 12:09 AM – 1:00 AM. Shivratri Puja: Entire night
Maha Shivratri 2026 falls on February 15th (Sunday). This is the most sacred night of the year for Shiva devotees — the night of Shiva's Tandava (cosmic dance) and his divine union with Parvati. Devotees observe nirjala fast and perform puja in 4 prahar (3-hour slots) through the night, staying awake till dawn. Even those who cannot observe a strict fast receive immense merit by visiting a Shiva temple and performing abhishek.
Shiva abhishek with milk (dugdha abhishek). Offer bilva leaves, white flowers. Chant Om Namah Shivaya.
Abhishek with curd (dadhi abhishek). Recite Shiva Chalisa or Shiva Purana.
Abhishek with ghee (ghrita abhishek). Most powerful prahar — Shiva is most accessible now.
Abhishek with honey (madhu abhishek). As dawn breaks, conclude with Maha Mrityunjaya mantra 108 times.
Maha Shivratri 2026 falls on February 15th, Sunday. The night-long puja begins at 6 PM and the fast is broken on February 16th morning.
1st Prahar: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM. 2nd Prahar: 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM. 3rd Prahar: 12:00 AM – 3:00 AM. 4th Prahar: 3:00 AM – 6:00 AM. The 3rd prahar (midnight) is considered the most powerful.
In each prahar offer different substances: milk (1st), curd (2nd), ghee (3rd), honey (4th). You can also add rose water, gangajal, sugar, and sandalwood paste. Always offer fresh bilva (bel) leaves after each abhishek.
Strict observers do nirjala fast (no food or water). Partial fast allows fruits, milk, thandai, and nuts. Avoid grains, pulses, onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian food entirely.
Ask Pandit Shivananda for puja guidance and spiritual advice.