Night of Lord Shiva – Maha Shivratri 2026 Significance & Observances

Date: February 15, Sunday

Calendar Context

Legends & Significance

Shaivism Belief: The night Lord Shiva performs the cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction.
Marriage of Shiva & Parvati: Commemorates their divine union.
Samudra Manthan: Shiva consumed the deadly Halahala poison, held it in his throat, turning it blue—thus called Neelkanth.
Promise of Protection: Lord Shiva vowed to protect the universe, symbolizing freedom from darkness and ignorance.
Scriptural Mentions: Maha Shivaratri is described in Skanda Purana, Linga Purana, and Padma Purana.

Rituals

Morning Worship: Devotees wake early, bathe, and offer prayers to Lord Shiva.
Temple Visits: Special pujas and Rudrabhishekam performed in Shiva temples.
Lingodbhava Darshan: Observed at midnight, marking Shiva’s manifestation as an infinite pillar of light.
Fasting: Devotees observe strict fasts, consuming only fruits, milk, or water.
Chanting: Continuous recitation of “Om Namah Shivaya”.
Scripture Reading: Devotees read Shiva Purana and other Shaivite texts.
Jaagaran (Night Vigil): Staying awake all night in devotion and meditation.

Spiritual Meaning

Symbolizes victory over ignorance and darkness.
A day of self-realization and awakening to the divine soul within.
Believed to grant health, longevity, prosperity, and moksha to sincere devotees.

Regional Observances

South India: Observed in Magha Masa Krishna Paksha Chaturdasi, with fasting, temple visits, and Jaagaran.
North India: Celebrated in Phalguna, with large gatherings at Jyotirlinga temples and riverside shrines.
Karnataka: The famous Sidhlingappa’s fair marks the day with cultural festivities.
Assam: At Umananda Temple on Peacock Island, devotees perform special pujas amidst the Brahmaputra.
Kashmir: Known as Hayrath or Vatuk Puja, followed by traditions of gift exchange among Kashmiri Pandits.
West Bengal: Observances at Tarakeswar Temple and Burdwan’s 108 Shiv Mandir emphasize collective devotion.