Happy Maha Shivratri 2026: Maha Shivaratri is not limited to just an evening of devotion; Its most powerful spiritual window opens at night during the sacred Nishitha period. Devotees who worship throughout the night can still perform the rituals and receive the blessings of Lord Shiva during these highly auspicious hours.
Holy Nishith Kaal Muhurta (Most Auspicious Time)
According to the traditional calendar, Maha Shivratri puja is performed exclusively during the Nishitha period, which represents the midnight peace, a time considered closest to divine consciousness.
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Nishith Kaal Muhurta:
February 16, 12:09 am to 1:01 am
This period is considered to be the most spiritually inspiring moment to worship Lord Shiva, meditate and chant mantras for inner transformation and liberation.
maha shivratri 2026 char prahar puja time
The night of Maha Shivratri is divided into four prahars (phases), each of which symbolizes a stage of spiritual awakening. Here the time is given according to Drik Panchang.
First phase: 6:11 pm to 9:23 pm (February 15)
Second phase: 9:23 PM (February 15) to 12:35 AM (February 16)
Third quarter: 12:35 am to 3:47 am (February 16)
Fourth quarter: 3:47 am to 6:59 am (February 16)
It is believed that devotees who worship in all four Prahars attain immense spiritual attainments and divine blessings.
Read this also Chant this mantra and stotra to get the blessings of Lord Shiva on this Maha Shivratri 2026. Om Namah Shivay
Rare planetary alignment on Maha Shivratri 2026
This year’s Maha Shivratri holds additional significance due to powerful astrological combinations. Auspicious yogas are being formed due to the conjunction of Sun, Mercury and Venus like:
1. Buddhaditya Yoga
2. Lakshmi Narayan Yoga
3. Shukraditya Yoga
These Rajayoga are believed to enhance prosperity, knowledge and spiritual advancement, making this Shivratri especially suitable for prayers and new beginnings.
Read this also Maha Shivratri 2026: What does it mean if Lord Shiva comes in your dream on this holy night?
Maha Shivratri 2026 Puja Vidhi (Step by Step Ritual)
Following the correct ritual method increases the spiritual effect of fasting and worship.
1. Wake up in Brahma Muhurta and take a holy bath.
2. Take a pledge to fast and worship with a true heart.
3. Wear clean clothes and go to a Shiva temple or make a temple at home.
4.Anoint Shivalinga:
- Water
- Milk
- ghee or sugarcane juice
5. Offer Belpatra, Dhatura, Bhang, fruits, flowers and sweets.
6. Chant “Om Namah Shivay”, recite Shiv Chalisa and perform Aarti.
7. Night vigil (jagran) is considered extremely auspicious.
Read this also Bel Patra rules you should follow to get the blessings of Lord Shiva and avoid these common mistakes
Powerful mantras to chant on Maha Shivratri
Maha Shivratri Mantra: Mahamrityunjaya Mantra
Om Trimbakam Yajamahe Sugandhi Pushtivardhanam
Urvarukamiv Bandhanan Mrityormukshiya Mamritat.
Mahamrityunjaya Mantra
Om Trimbakam Yajamahe Sugandhi Pushtivardhanam.
Urvarukamiv Bandhananmrityormukshiya Mamritat॥
It is believed that this mantra provides healing, protection and freedom from fear.
Rudra Gayatri Mantra
Om Tatpurushaya Vidmahe Mahadevaya Dhimahi
Tanno Rudra: Prachodayat.
Rudra Gayatri Mantra
Om Tatpurushaya Vidmahe Mahadevaya Dhimahi.
Tanno Rudra: Prachodayat.
Chanting it invokes strength, clarity and divine guidance.
holy maha shivratri story
The importance of Maha Shivaratri has been beautifully described in Garuda Purana.
It tells the story of a hunter who unknowingly worshiped Shiva. While searching for prey in the forest, he spent the night near a Shivalinga under a Bilva tree. To stay awake, as soon as he plucked leaves, they fell on Shivalinga. Drops of water also fell from the nearby pond during the night.
He had completed the rituals of Mahashivratri without any intention. After his death, when Yama’s messengers came to collect him, Shiva’s attendants protected him and granted him salvation.
Message: Even an unintentional act done with sincerity and purity can please Lord Shiva.
Why does the night of Maha Shivratri still matter?
Maha Shivratri is not just a festival; It is a night that symbolizes the destruction of darkness and the awakening of consciousness. The late night Nishith Kaal puja represents silence, peace and union with the divine, a time when devotees seek transformation, forgiveness and inner strength.
Those who continue their prayers throughout the night are believed to be blessed with spiritual growth, peace and fulfillment of heartfelt desires.
Read this also Maha Shivratri 2026: Offer these 9 easy-to-make offerings to get the blessings of Lord Shiva on Mahashivratri.
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