Annual Fasts — Hindu Sacred Fast
Mahashivratri Vrat
Mahashivratri (Great Night of Shiva) falls on the 14th (Chaturdashi) of Krishna Paksha in Phalguna month and is the most important Shiva festival of the year. Devotees observe a complete 24-hour fast and stay awake through the night performing four-prahar (4 parts of the night) puja of Shiva. The night is divided into four watches, each with a separate Shiva abhishek and puja.
Last updated: 19 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Benefits
Grants moksha, removes all sins, ensures the grace of Shiva and Parvati, removes obstacles in marriage for unmarried women, grants liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Procedure
Observe complete fast (nirjala or phalahar). Visit Shiva temple and perform abhishek in each of the four watches: First prahar (evening), Second prahar (midnight), Third prahar (late night), Fourth prahar (dawn). Chant Om Namah Shivaya through the night. Break fast next morning after Shiva puja.
When to Observe
Phalguna Krishna Chaturdashi — once per year (February/March).
Fasting Rules
Nirjala or phalahar. Avoid grains, salt, onion, garlic. Milk, fruits, nuts permitted. Stay awake through the night.
How to Break the Fast
Break fast next morning on Amavasya after completing the fourth-prahar puja and morning Shiva puja.
FAQ
Q.What is Mahashivratri Vrat?
Mahashivratri (Great Night of Shiva) falls on the 14th (Chaturdashi) of Krishna Paksha in Phalguna month and is the most important Shiva festival of the year. Devotees observe a complete 24-hour fast and stay awake through the night performing four-p...
Q.What are the fasting rules for Mahashivratri Vrat?
Nirjala or phalahar. Avoid grains, salt, onion, garlic. Milk, fruits, nuts permitted. Stay awake through the night.
Q.When should Mahashivratri Vrat be observed?
Phalguna Krishna Chaturdashi — once per year (February/March).
Q.What are the benefits of Mahashivratri Vrat?
Grants moksha, removes all sins, ensures the grace of Shiva and Parvati, removes obstacles in marriage for unmarried women, grants liberation from the cycle of birth and death.