Maha Shivaratri Fasting 2026: Maha Shivratri, one of the biggest and most sacred Hindu festivals, is just around the corner. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this festival is a time of deep devotion and spiritual
fervour across India, with celebrations stretching from Tamil Nadu to Kashmir.
Observed on the 14th day of the waning phase of the lunar month Phalguna, devotees pray at the Shiv templeand participate in vigils that go on throughout the night to seek the blessings of Mahadev. In 2025, Mahashivratri will be observed on February 15.
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Fasting on Maha Shivratri is considered deeply spiritual, equivalent to year-long Shiva worship. It is believed to bring divine blessings, absolution from sins, and the path to salvation (moksha). So, if you are someone who wants to observe a fast on this special occasion, let us walk you through the dos and don’ts that one must follow while observing the fast.
Maha Shivaratri Fasting 2026: Things To Do
Start the day with a pure mind and body. Devotees should get up early, take a bath, and change into clean clothes on the day of the fast. You don’t need to buy new clothes, but clean clothes are a must.
Before worshipping Lord Shiva, wash the Shivalinga in milk, water, saffron, honey and Ganga water. Then light incense and a diya.
Mantras are chanted while observing the Mahashivratri. The chants are said to possess certain powers. The most famous mantra chanted is ‘Om Namah Shivaya’, where you basically pray for your soul to be one with Lord Shiva. These mantras cause some energy vibrations that impact our lives.
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In addition, the lord is served milk-based desserts like kheer, peda and barfi to eat.
To be blessed with success, prosperity, peace and happiness, one must offer Lord Shiva bel patra, uncooked rice, milk, curd, datura fruit, sandalwood, ghee and water.
Then, devotees mark this day by observing a fast. While some don’t even drink water during the whole time, one can consume fruits and dishes prepared from Sabudana and milk products. But you should refrain from consuming any meal after sunset.
To stay energised, drink enough liquids like coconut water and eat foods that will help with a balanced diet.
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During the fast, devotees must refrain from eating prohibited foods like grains and legumes. Only consume satvik and vrat-friendly meals like fruits, milk and root vegetables.
List of Things to Avoid on Maha Shivaratri
Sandalwood paste is required for this puja, and the devotees must not use kumkum tilak.
Devotees performing the puja or observing the fast shouldn’t wear dirty clothes. They should also avoid wearing black clothes and accessories made of leather.
Lord Shiva is fond of white flowers. Avoid offering red flowers to the Shivling. Moreover, kevada and champa flowers should be avoided, as it is said that they are cursed and despised by Lord Shiva.
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While you can offer coconuts to Lord Shiva, you should not offer coconut water to the Shivling.
According to the Puranas, no one should complete one full circle around the Shiva Lingam. Devotees should always do a semi-circle and return to where they started from.
When you offer Bael leaves to Lord Shiva, make sure there are three leaves and scratch-free. Damaged leaves mean an insult to the deity.
Milk should never be offered from a bronze container to Lord Shiva. Use a copper vessel scratch-free.
Devotees should avoid the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, and non-vegetarian food during the fast.
