Devotees across India thronged Shiva temples on February 15, 2026, marking Maha Shivratri with prayers, fasting, and rituals amid chants of “Har Har Mahadev.” The festival, falling on a Sunday, saw massive crowds despite some panchang confusion over whether to observe on the 15th or 16th.
Festival Significance
Maha Shivratri honors Lord Shiva as the destroyer and transformer, commemorating his cosmic dance of creation and destruction. Devotees fast, perform night-long vigils (jaagran), and offer bilva leaves, milk, and belpatra during Nishita Kaal (around 12:09-1:01 AM on Feb 16). Parana (fast-breaking) follows sunrise on the 16th.
Major Celebrations
- Ujjain’s Mahakaleshwar Temple: Iconic site with lakhs offering prayers; believed Shiva’s residence.
- Kashi Vishwanath, Varanasi: Long queues for darshan amid Ganga aarti.
- Bhavnath Mahadev, Junagadh (Gujarat): Traditional fairs and processions.
- Shankaracharya Temple, Srinagar: Snowy gatherings in Kashmir.
- Delhi and Meerut: Crowds at Kali Paltan Mandir and local shrines.
Spiritual hubs like Isha Foundation (with Sadhguru) and Art of Living hosted live events, Rudra Puja, and homas streamed online.
