Maha Shivratri is one of the major and highly revered festivals in Hinduism, celebrated on the 14th night of the dark fortnight in the month of Phalguna according to the Hindu lunar calendar. It is believed that observing fast and performing rituals on this day helps devotees relieve life’s hardships and brings them blessings of prosperity and well-being. The article outlines the specific dates and timings for the Maha Shivratri fast in 2026, which begins early in the morning on February 15 and concludes the following day after dawn.

For 2026, the Maha Shivratri fast starts at 5:17 AM on February 15 and ends post 6:59 AM on February 16. The observance prohibits the intake of solid food, allowing devotees to consume fruits, milk, and other light vegetarian items. It also emphasizes the importance of staying awake during the night of Shivratri, which is considered highly auspicious, along with the recommended timings for the rituals and prayers scheduled throughout the night.

The timings for the rituals are meticulously detailed: the Nishita-kaal puja is set to occur from 12:09 AM to 1:01 AM on February 16, reflecting the deep spiritual significance of this period. Additionally, there are specific timings for the first and second watches of the night for prayers, highlighting the traditional importance placed on precise timings for worship during this festival. This observance serves as a bridge between the community's cultural traditions and spiritual beliefs, reinforcing the importance of both devotion and proper rituals in Hindu practice.