When Is Maha Shivratri, February 15 Or 16? Know Shubh Muhurat, Puja Vidhi And Rituals

Maha Shivratri is one of the most sacred Hindu festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva. Every year, devotees across India and around the world observe this auspicious occasion with fasting, night-long prayers, and special rituals. However, many people are often confused about the exact date — will Maha Shivratri fall on February 15 or 16 this year?

The confusion usually arises due to the Hindu lunar calendar and the timing of the Chaturdashi Tithi.

????️ Maha Shivratri Date: February 15 or 16?

Maha Shivratri is observed on the Chaturdashi Tithi (14th day) of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Phalguna (as per the Hindu calendar).

The festival is observed on the day when the Nishita Kaal (midnight period) coincides with Chaturdashi Tithi, as midnight is considered the most auspicious time to worship Lord Shiva.

If the Chaturdashi Tithi spans across two days, the festival is typically celebrated on the day when it prevails during the night.

Devotees are advised to check local Panchang or temple announcements for region-specific timing confirmation.

⏰ Maha Shivratri Shubh Muhurat

The most important puja timing on Maha Shivratri is:

• Nishita Kaal Puja Time (Midnight Puja) – Most auspicious

• Evening and night are divided into four Prahars, and special Shiva Puja is performed in each Prahar.

Key Ritual Timings:

1. First Prahar – Evening

2. Second Prahar – Late Evening

3. Third Prahar – Midnight

4. Fourth Prahar – Early Morning

Among these, the midnight Nishita Kaal is considered the most sacred.

????️ Maha Shivratri Puja Vidhi (Rituals)

Devotees follow a series of rituals to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings:

1. Fasting (Vrat)

Many devotees observe a strict fast throughout the day and night. Some consume fruits and milk, while others follow a Nirjala (waterless) fast.

2. Abhishekam

Shiva Lingam is bathed with:

• Milk

• Honey

• Curd

• Ganga Jal

• Sugar

• Bel Patra (Bilva leaves)

Each offering holds spiritual significance.

3. Chanting and Bhajans

Devotees chant:

• “Om Namah Shivaya”

• Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra

Temples conduct special bhajans and night-long jagrans.

4. Offering Bel Patra

Offering three-leaf Bel Patra to Shiva is considered highly auspicious.

???? Spiritual Significance of Maha Shivratri

Maha Shivratri marks:

• The divine marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati

• The night when Lord Shiva performed the cosmic dance (Tandava)

• A powerful time for spiritual growth and inner awakening

It is believed that sincere worship on this day helps remove negativity and brings peace, prosperity, and spiritual strength.

✨ Conclusion

Maha Shivratri is a deeply spiritual festival celebrated with devotion and faith. Whether it falls on February 15 or 16, the key is to observe the festival according to the Chaturdashi Tithi and Nishita Kaal timing in your region.