Festival
Mahashivratri
महाशिवरात्रि
The great night of Shiva in Phalguna: night-long vigil, abhisheka and japa in the four praharas.
Why it matters
Mahashivratri falls on the fourteenth night of the waning Moon in Phalguna (amanta Magha). It is the most sacred of the year's Shivaratris.
Read moreShow less
Devotees keep a vigil through the night, offering abhisheka with water, milk and bilva leaves in each of the four praharas, and chanting Om Namah Shivaya. The worship at Nishith Kaal, around midnight, is held most special.
You are welcome to keep the night in whatever way suits your health and family. Even one prahara of quiet japa, or a single round before sleep, is a sincere offering.
A fast is optional. Skip if pregnant, unwell, diabetic or on medication; a light sattvic meal is a complete observance too.
Preview — awaiting expert reviewTonight's sequence
26 minMahashivratri Night Sadhana: Night of Shiva · 26 min
Simple home ritual
You will need
- A ghee diya
- Water and a little milk
- Bilva leaves (if available)
- A Shivalinga or picture of Shiva