Mahashivratri 2026 Date: Devotees of Lord Shiva are facing confusion regarding the exact date of Mahashivratri this year. Many are unsure whether the sacred fast and night-long worship should be observed on February 15 or February 16. Here is a clear explanation of the correct date, important muhurat, and fasting rules to follow.

Why Mahashivratri Holds Special Significance

Mahashivratri is one of the most revered festivals for Shiva devotees. According to Hindu beliefs, this sacred night marks the divine appearance of Lord Shiva in his infinite form. Traditionally, the festival is celebrated every year on the Chaturdashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Phalguna.

However, in 2026, the overlap of tithi timings has created confusion among devotees about the correct day for observing the fast and performing night worship.

Mahashivratri 2026: Confirmed Date

As per the Hindu Panchang:

• Chaturdashi Tithi begins: February 15, 2026, at 5:04 PM

• Chaturdashi Tithi ends: February 16, 2026, at 5:34 PM

Despite the tithi spanning two days, Mahashivratri will be observed on Sunday, February 15, 2026.
This is because the Nishita Kaal (midnight period) — considered most auspicious for Shiva worship — falls on the night of February 15.

The fast (vrat) can be concluded on February 16 between 6:59 AM and 3:24 PM.

Reason Behind the Date Confusion

In most Hindu festivals, the Udaya Tithi (sunrise-based date) determines the celebration day. But Mahashivratri is an exception.

For this festival, midnight worship (Nishita Kaal) and the four night prahars hold greater importance than the sunrise tithi. In 2026, although the Udaya Tithi alignment creates doubt, the presence of Nishita Kaal on February 15 makes this the correct day for observance.

Key Puja Muhurat for Mahashivratri 2026

Devotees planning special worship should note the following auspicious timings:

• Abhijit Muhurat: 12:13 PM to 12:58 PM

• Evening Muhurat: After 7:28 PM

• Nishita Kaal Muhurat: 12:09 AM to 1:00 AM (night of Feb 15–16)

Performing Shiva Puja during Nishita Kaal is considered highly meritorious.

Mahashivratri Vrat Rules to Please Lord Shiva

Observing Mahashivratri fast requires discipline and purity. Follow these key guidelines:

✔ Foods to avoid

• Grains and regular salt

• Rice and tamasic foods

• Heavy or processed meals

✔ Foods allowed during vrat

• Fruits and milk

• Makhana and sabudana

• Singhara flour and vrat rice

• Light satvik preparations

✔ Spiritual practices to follow

• Maintain calmness and avoid anger

• Speak truth and avoid negativity

• Stay awake at night (jagran)

• Spend time in bhajans and Shiva chanting

Devotees should break the fast only after sunrise on the next day within the prescribed paran time.

Bottom Line

If you were unsure about the Mahashivratri 2026 date, the confusion can now be put to rest. The sacred festival and fast will be observed on February 15, 2026, due to the presence of the all-important Nishita Kaal on this night. Devotees are advised to follow the proper muhurat and vrat rules to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.