Maha Shivaratri Festival 2026

Maha Shivaratri, the "Great Night of Shiva," is one of the most significant festivals celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm throughout India, Nepal, and by Hindus worldwide. Celebrated annually with immense devotion, it honours Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism.

Maha Shivaratri marks the marriage day of Lord Shiva. It occurs on the 14th night of the new moon during the Hindu month of Phalguna, which aligns with the Tamil month of Maasi. This sacred night is marked by prayers, fasting, and rituals that hold deep spiritual significance for devotees worldwide.

Significance of Maha Shivaratri

Maha Shivaratri is mentioned in several Puranas, especially the Skanda Purana and Linga Purana, with different stories explaining its importance. According to one story in the Shaivism tradition, this is the night when Lord Shiva performs a heavenly dance, the Tandava, that represents creation, preservation, and destruction.

Another legend tells that it is the night when Lord Shiva and Parvati got married. It is also believed to be the night Shiva drank the poison Halahala to save the universe, earning the name Neelakantha (the blue-throated one).

Maha Shivaratri is a time for fasting, worshipping Shiva's linga, and seeking to overcome past sins to attain liberation. It is a time for self-reflection and spiritual growth, offering a chance to purify the mind and body while enhancing spiritual awareness.

The dance tradition associated with this festival has deep historical roots. It has become an annual gathering of artists, especially at important Hindu temples like those in Konark, Khajuraho, Pattadakal, Modhera, and Chidambaram. In Chidambaram, the festival is called Natyanjali ("worship through dance") and is held at a temple known for sculptures showcasing all the dance mudras from the ancient text, the Natya Shastra.

Rituals and Celebrations

Maha Shivaratri is a festival of immense spiritual significance, observed with various rituals and customs:

1. Fasting and Devotion:
   Devotees observe strict fasting on this day, consuming only fruits, milk, and water. The fast symbolises self-discipline and purification, bringing the devotee closer to Lord Shiva.
2. Puja and Abhisheka:
   Worshippers perform the Rudra Abhisheka, where the Shivling is anointed with sacred offerings such as milk, honey, curd, ghee, and water, along with bael leaves. This is accompanied by chanting mantras like the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra and Om Namah Shivaya.
3. Night-long Vigil:
   Devotees stay awake all night (Jagaran), singing hymns and bhajans. This vigil symbolises the triumph of light over darkness and ignorance.
4. Temple Visits:
   Temples dedicated to Lord Shiva are adorned with flowers and lights. Thousands of devotees visit to offer prayers and witness special pujas.

Cultural Significance

• Gatherings: Special cultural events take place throughout the night where thousands attend with devotion.
• Tandava Performances: Classical dance forms inspired by Shiva’s cosmic dance are performed, symbolising the eternal rhythm of life.
• Devotional Music: Communities organise kirtans and bhajan sessions, creating an atmosphere of unity.
• Storytelling: Narratives from the Shiva Purana are recited, teaching the virtues of Lord Shiva.

How to Celebrate at Home

1. Prepare for the Day: Cleanse your home, set up an idol of Lord Shiva, decorate with flowers, and light an oil lamp.
2. Observe Fasting: Follow a simple sattvic diet and refrain from consuming grains or non-vegetarian food.
3. Participate in Rituals: Visit a nearby Shiva temple or perform Abhishekam at home.
4. Meditate and Reflect: Use the night to meditate and chant Shiva’s name, seeking inner peace.

Celebrations Around the World

Maha Shivaratri is celebrated with great enthusiasm across the globe.

India

• Nilkanth Mahadev Temple, Haridwar: Devotees flock to the ghats at Har Ki Pauri before heading to the temple to offer prayers.
• Umananda Temple, Assam: Located on Peacock Island in the Brahmaputra River, this temple hosts massive celebrations.
• Srisaila Mallikarjuna Temple, Andhra Pradesh: One of the 12 Jyotirlingas and a key site for the festival.
• Isha Yoga Centre, Tamil Nadu: Founded by Sadhguru, this centre celebrates with dance, music, meditation, and a night-long satsang.

Nepal

Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu: One of the most sacred Shiva temples, witnessing a massive gathering of devotees.

Global Observance

Hindu communities in Mauritius, Trinidad, the UK, and the USA organise special prayers and cultural events.