The festival of Mahashivratri is celebrated throughout India with great enthusiasm, marking the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This year, the Chaturdashi date, which falls in the month of Falgun in the Hindu calendar, begins on February 15, 2026, at 5:04 PM and ends the next day at 5:33 PM. Devotees eagerly await this day all year, demonstrating their love and devotion by thronging temples and chanting 'Om Namah Shivaya'. On Mahashivratri, it is customary for devotees to worship during the four quarters of the night, with the primary puja occurring at midnight, referred to as 'Nishita Kaal'.

This year, the fast for Mahashivratri is significant as it is not just a time for prayer but also for reflection and engagement in night-long devotion through bhajans and kirtans. The article outlines the auspicious time for breaking the fast, known as 'Paran', which is crucial for the spiritual benefits of the observance. On February 16, several time options are available for breaking the fast, but it is essential to avoid the Rahukal period for an auspicious conclusion to the rituals.

The celebration of Mahashivratri is vital for many devotees who believe in the spiritual and material benefits of the observance, reinforcing the cultural and religious significance of this event in Hinduism. It serves as a reminder of the devotion towards Lord Shiva and the importance of following rituals properly, enhancing community bonding through shared practices and celebrations.