Maha Shivaratri — the Great Night of Shiva — is the most sacred night for Shiva devotees. Observed in February or March, it is a night of fasting, Om Namah Shivaya chanting, and four prahar pujas through the night. Millions gather at Shiva temples staying awake until dawn in devotion.
Quick Answer
Maha Shivaratri 2026: February 26. Night vigil — stay awake praying. Four prahar pujas at 6 PM, 9 PM, 12 AM, 3 AM. Fast from food (some from water). Offer bilva leaves, milk, honey, water to Shivalinga. Chant Om Namah Shivaya. Sacred Shiva temples: Kashi Vishwanath, Kedarnath, Somnath, Mahakaleshwar.
Fasting & Night Vigil
The Shivaratri fast runs sunrise to sunrise. Many observe nirjala (waterless) fast. Staying awake through the night in prayer is considered as meritorious as a year's daily worship. Shiva temples are open all night — many devotees visit at each of the four prahar transitions.
12 Jyotirlingas on Shivaratri
The 12 Jyotirlingas receive their largest annual gatherings on Maha Shivaratri. Kashi Vishwanath, Somnath, Mahakaleshwar, and Kedarnath see millions of pilgrims on this night. Online booking is essential for major Jyotirlingas.
Shivaratri for Families
Family observance: daytime fast, evening temple visit for first prahar puja, attempt at night vigil. Children participate in early evening puja then sleep while adults continue. The four prahar puja at home requires specific offerings for each watch of the night.
💡 Family tradition tip
Document your family's Maha Shivaratri traditions — the specific Shiva temple visited, the specific prayers chanted, any family vows associated with Shivaratri, and how the night vigil is observed. Shivaratri traditions are deeply family-specific across different Shaivite traditions.