Maha Shivaratri 2026
Sunday, 15 February 2026Public Holiday
2026 celebration (passed)
Sunday, 15 February 2026
See 2027 date below.
Names in regional scripts
About Maha Shivaratri
The great night of Shiva. Devotees fast, stay awake all night, and offer bilva leaves to Shivalinga. The most important festival for Shaivites across India.
Tithi: Tithi 28 · Type: major · Fasting: Observed
Maha Shivaratri dates (2025–2029)
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 26 Feb | Wednesday |
| 2026This year | 15 Feb | Sunday |
| 2027 | 4 Feb | Thursday |
| 2028 | 23 Feb | Wednesday |
| 2029 | 11 Feb | Sunday |
Observed in
Frequently asked questions
When is Maha Shivaratri 2026?
Maha Shivaratri 2026 falls on Sunday, 15 February 2026. Tithi 28
What is the significance of Maha Shivaratri?
The great night of Shiva. Devotees fast, stay awake all night, and offer bilva leaves to Shivalinga. The most important festival for Shaivites across India.
Is Maha Shivaratri a public holiday?
Yes, Maha Shivaratri is observed as a gazetted public holiday in India. Most government offices, banks, and many private businesses remain closed.
Do you fast on Maha Shivaratri?
Yes, fasting is traditionally observed on Maha Shivaratri. The fast may be partial (fruits and milk only) or strict (waterless), depending on the tradition followed.
When will Maha Shivaratri be celebrated next year (2027)?
Maha Shivaratri 2027 will be celebrated on Thursday, 4 February 2027.
📿 Stotras to recite on Maha Shivaratri
Shiva Tandava Stotra
शिव ताण्डव स्तोत्र
A 17-verse hymn composed by Ravana in praise of Lord Shiva's cosmic dance (tandava) — celebrated for its powerful, rhythmic Sanskrit that mirrors the dance itself.
~8 min
Shiva Mahimna Stotra
शिव महिम्नः स्तोत्र
A 43-verse philosophical hymn to Shiva's glory composed by the Gandharva Pushpadanta — famous for its inclusive vision: "as rivers flow to the same ocean, all paths lead to You."
~15 min
Shiva Panchakshara Stotra
शिव पञ्चाक्षर स्तोत्र
Five verses on Lord Shiva, each beginning with one syllable of the panchakshari mantra "Na-Ma-Shi-Va-Ya" — composed by Adi Shankaracharya.
~3 min
Mahamrityunjaya Mantra
महामृत्युञ्जय मन्त्र
The "great death-conquering mantra" addressed to Tryambaka (Shiva) — recited for healing, longevity, and liberation from the fear of death.
~2 min
Related festivals
Plan around Maha Shivaratri