Maha Shivratri fasting time 2026: Start to finish schedule, nishita kaal, and parana muhurat

Mahashivratri fasting time 2026: Start to finish schedule, nishita kaal, and parana muhurat (image: canva)

Mahashivratri 2026 falls on February 15, with fasting starting that morning. Key puja times include Nishita Kaal (12:09–1:01 AM, Feb 16) and four Prahar vigils. The fast is broken on February 16 between 6:59 AM and 3:24 PM, following Vedic guidelines.

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Maha Shivratri 2026 is being celebrated with immense devotion today, Sunday, February 15, 2026. As devotees across the world observe the strict "Great Night of Shiva" fast, knowing the precise Mahashivratri fasting time 2026, the auspicious Nishita Kaal Puja time, and the correct Parana Muhurat is essential for a successful Vrat.

This year, the Chaturdashi Tithi spans from Sunday evening to Monday evening, making the night vigil (Jagran) particularly significant. Whether you are performing the Rudrabhishek at home or visiting a temple, adhering to the Vedic timeline ensures that your prayers reach Mahadev during the most potent cosmic windows.

Here is the complete start-to-finish schedule for Maha Shivratri 2026, including the 4 Prahar puja timings and when to break your fast on February 16.

Mahashivratri 2026: Tithi and fasting schedule

The spiritual vibration of Mahashivratri begins with the onset of the Chaturdashi Tithi. Devotees typically start their fast on the morning of February 15, maintaining a strict abstinence from grains and cereals.

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Nishita kaal puja time

The most auspicious time for Shiva Puja is the Nishita Kaal. It is believed that Lord Shiva appeared in the form of the fiery Linga during this specific midnight window. Worship performed during this time is said to cut through past karmas and bring instant blessings.

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4 Prahar puja timings for night vigil (Jagran)

For staunch devotees observing the Mahashivratri Jagran, the night is divided into four quarters or "Prahars." A special puja is performed in each Prahar, often with different offerings (Water, Curd, Ghee, and Honey) to symbolize various aspects of purification.

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Shivaratri parana time 2026: When to break the fast?

The conclusion of the fast, known as Parana, is as critical as the fast itself. According to scriptures, the Vrat must be broken on the next day after sunrise but before the Chaturdashi Tithi ends. Breaking the fast too early or too late can nullify the benefits of the observance.

Devotees should take a bath on the morning of February 16 and offer a final prayer before consuming simple, sattvic food to complete their Mahashivratri Vrat. By following this schedule, you ensure your worship aligns perfectly with the cosmic energy of Lord Shiva.

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