About Maha Shivaratri
Maha Shivaratri, meaning 'the great night of Shiva', is a major Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a solemn and spiritual occasion devoted to prayer, reflection, and inner stillness rather than festive display. Many traditions hold that the night commemorates Shiva's cosmic dance or his union with the goddess Parvati, and devotees regard it as an especially auspicious time to seek his blessings and overcome darkness and ignorance.
Devotees observe a strict fast and keep an all-night vigil, chanting the sacred mantra 'Om Namah Shivaya' and offering water, milk, bilva leaves, and flowers to the Shiva lingam. Temples remain open through the night, with hymns and rituals performed in successive watches. The festival is observed devoutly across India and at major shrines in Nepal, including the renowned Pashupatinath Temple, which draws large gatherings of pilgrims and ascetics.
Maha Shivaratri follows the Hindu lunar calendar, falling on the night before the new moon in the month of Phalguna, so its Gregorian date changes each year and usually lands in February or March. Because the day shifts annually, the live countdown above tracks the next date for you. You are welcome to add this countdown to your own page to prepare for the great night in advance.
Upcoming dates
| 2027 | Saturday, March 6, 2027next |
| 2028 | Wednesday, February 23, 2028 |
FAQ
When is Maha Shivaratri this year and what date is it?
Maha Shivaratri follows the Hindu lunar calendar, so its Gregorian date varies each year, usually falling in February or March. The live countdown above shows the exact next date.
Why is Maha Shivaratri celebrated?
It honours Lord Shiva and is regarded as an especially auspicious night for prayer and reflection. Traditions link it to Shiva's cosmic dance or his union with the goddess Parvati.
How is Maha Shivaratri celebrated?
Devotees fast and keep an all-night vigil, chanting 'Om Namah Shivaya' and offering water, milk, and bilva leaves to the Shiva lingam. Temples stay open through the night for prayers.
Where is Maha Shivaratri celebrated?
It is observed across India and at major shrines in Nepal, including the famous Pashupatinath Temple, which draws large gatherings of pilgrims and ascetics.