Major Festivals — Hindu Sacred Festival
Mahashivratri
Mahashivratri (The Great Night of Shiva) is one of the most sacred nights in Shaivism, occurring on the 14th day of the dark fortnight of Phalguna. It marks the night when Lord Shiva performed his cosmic dance (Tandava) and also the night of the divine marriage of Shiva and Parvati. Devotees observe complete 24-hour fast, perform four-prahar puja (four watches of the night), pour Rudrabhishek oblations, and many stay awake through the entire night in meditation and prayer.
Last updated: 19 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Significance
The most sacred Shiva night — performing any worship or fast on this night is said to equal the merit of a year's worth of Shiva worship. Liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Rituals & Traditions
Complete 24-hour fast (nirjala or phalahar). Four-prahar puja at each quarter of the night. Rudrabhishek with milk, honey, ghee, curd, sugarcane juice. Stay awake all night. Visit Shiva temple. Chant Om Namah Shivaya. Release of Shiva from his cosmic sleep.
Traditional Foods
FAQ
Q.What is Mahashivratri?
Mahashivratri (The Great Night of Shiva) is one of the most sacred nights in Shaivism, occurring on the 14th day of the dark fortnight of Phalguna. It marks the night when Lord Shiva performed his cosmic dance (Tandava) and also the night of the divi...
Q.What is the significance of Mahashivratri?
The most sacred Shiva night — performing any worship or fast on this night is said to equal the merit of a year's worth of Shiva worship. Liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Q.What are the rituals of Mahashivratri?
Complete 24-hour fast (nirjala or phalahar). Four-prahar puja at each quarter of the night. Rudrabhishek with milk, honey, ghee, curd, sugarcane juice. Stay awake all night. Visit Shiva temple. Chant Om Namah Shivaya. Release of Shiva from his cosmic sleep.
Q.What foods are made during Mahashivratri?
Milk prasad, Bel patra prasad, Fruits (for breaking fast), Sabudana, Makhana