Mahashivratri 2026 – Mahashivratri, one of the most revered Hindu festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva, will be observed on February 15, 2026. Devotees across the country are preparing for a night of fasting, prayer, and traditional rituals, while some have raised questions about the presence of Bhadra Kaal during the festival period.
In 2026, Mahashivratri falls on the Chaturdashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Phalgun. The occasion marks what is considered the most sacred night for the worship of Lord Shiva. Followers observe strict fasts, visit temples, and perform Jalabhishek of the Shivling. Many also participate in night-long devotional singing and recitation of mantras.
The festival holds deep religious meaning, symbolizing spiritual awakening and devotion. Staying awake through the night and offering prayers during specific time slots is believed to carry special significance.
According to traditional Hindu calendar calculations, Bhadra will begin at 5:04 pm on February 15 and conclude at 5:23 am on February 16. This places its duration at approximately 12 hours, overlapping with the Mahashivratri observances.
Bhadra Kaal is generally regarded as an inauspicious period in Hindu astrology and is often avoided for important ceremonies. However, astrologers note that this particular Bhadra phase is positioned in the netherworld rather than on Earth. When Bhadra is believed to reside below the earthly plane, it is not considered harmful for religious activities conducted by devotees.
As a result, temple visits, offerings, and puja rituals can be performed without concern during Mahashivratri 2026.
The Chaturdashi Tithi will commence at 5:04 pm on February 15 and remain in effect until 5:34 pm on February 16. Devotees planning to perform Shivling Jalabhishek during the day can choose from several favourable time slots.
The first auspicious window runs from 8:24 am to 9:48 am. The second muhurta is scheduled between 9:48 am and 11:11 am. A third suitable period follows from 11:11 am to 12:35 pm.
These time frames are considered appropriate for offering water, milk, belpatra, fruits, and other ritual items to the Shivling. Devotees traditionally chant sacred mantras while performing the abhishek and seek blessings for health, prosperity, and spiritual growth.
The Nishita Kaal puja, regarded as one of the most powerful moments of Mahashivratri, will take place between 12:28 am and 1:17 am on February 16. Midnight worship holds special importance because it is believed to mark the time when divine energies are at their peak.
During this period, many devotees gather in temples or conduct prayers at home, focusing on meditation and mantra recitation.
A key tradition of Mahashivratri is the observance of four prahars, or four phases of night worship. Each segment carries its own ritual value, and devotees perform abhishek and prayers in every prahar.
The first prahar will be observed from 6:39 pm to 9:45 pm. The second prahar extends from 9:45 pm to 12:52 am on February 16. The third phase runs from 12:52 am to 3:59 am, followed by the fourth and final prahar from 3:59 am to 7:06 am.
Throughout the night, chants of Om Namah Shivaya resonate in temples and homes. Devotees maintain their fast and remain awake as a mark of devotion.
With clear guidance on Bhadra Kaal and puja timings, Mahashivratri 2026 is expected to be observed in accordance with traditional practices, allowing worshippers to carry out rituals with confidence and faith.
