Amrutkaal अमृतकाल
Hindu Festival

Maha Shivaratri

महाशिवरात्रिः
Next · 5 February 2027 · Chaturdashi of Krishna paksha, Phalguna
244
days until Maha Shivaratri

Shubh Muhurat

Full panchang, Rahu Kaal, and muhurat windows will be available closer to 5 February 2027.

We compute auspicious time windows with Swiss Ephemeris when the festival falls within our 38-day panchang window.

Significance

Maha Shivaratri — 'the great night of Shiva' — is the most important day in the Shaivite calendar. Devotees observe a day-long fast and an all-night vigil, offering bilva leaves, milk, and water to the Shiva linga. The night marks the cosmic dance of Shiva, his marriage to Parvati, and for yogis, the night when stillness brings the deepest meditation.

Rituals & Traditions

Upcoming dates

Observed by: Hindus

Frequently asked questions

When is Maha Shivaratri?

Maha Shivaratri is next observed on 5 February 2027. The festival follows chaturdashi of krishna paksha, phalguna.

What is Maha Shivaratri?

Maha Shivaratri — 'the great night of Shiva' — is the most important day in the Shaivite calendar. Devotees observe a day-long fast and an all-night vigil, offering bilva leaves, milk, and water to the Shiva linga. The night marks the cosmic dance of Shiva, his marriage to Parvati, and for yogis, the night when stillness brings the deepest meditation.

How is Maha Shivaratri celebrated?

Day-long fast (some keep nirjala — without water); Abhishek of the Shiva linga with milk, water, honey, curd, ghee; Offering bilva (bel) leaves, datura flowers, dhatura fruit; Chanting 'Om Namah Shivaya' through the night; Visit to Shiva temple before sunrise; All-night jagran with bhajans.

Who observes Maha Shivaratri?

Maha Shivaratri is observed by Hindus.