Mahashivratri 2026Image Credit source: freepik
Mahashivratri 2026 Date: The festival of Mahashivratri is considered very special for the worship of Lord Shiva. According to religious belief, the marriage of Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati took place on this day. On this day, devotees observe fast and anoint and worship Shivalinga with rituals. It is said that worshiping Shiva done with a true heart removes life’s problems and fulfills wishes. According to the Panchang, in the year 2026, the fast of Mahashivratri will be observed on 15 February. In such a situation, let us know what is considered auspicious to offer to Lord Shiva on this day and what things should be avoided.
What to offer to Mahadev?
- Lord Shiva loves simplicity. If you offer these things with full devotion, your wishes can be fulfilled.
- Belpatra: Belpatra is very dear to Mahadev. Keep in mind that the Belpatra should not be torn and it should have three leaves joined together.
- Dhatura and Bhang: These things are offered to Lord Shiva as a symbol of removing negativity.
- Raw milk and Ganga water: Pure raw milk and Ganga water are considered best for anointing Shivling.
- Sandalwood: Apply white sandalwood tilak to Lord Shiva. This gives peace to the mind.
- Akshat (Rice): Use whole rice in puja. Never offer broken rice.
Don’t offer these things even by mistake!
- Ketaki flowers: According to the legend, Lord Shiva had banned Ketaki flower from his worship.
- Tulsi Dal: Lord Shiva had killed the demon Jalandhar, whose wife was Vrinda (Tulsi). That is why Tulsi is not offered in Shiva worship.
- Sindoor or Kumkum: Mahadev is a recluse and vermilion is a symbol of good luck, which married women apply for the long life of their husbands.
- Water from conch: Lord Shiva had killed the demon named Shankhchud, hence conch is considered prohibited in his worship.
Do not make these mistakes during puja
Never worship a broken Shivalinga. However, Narmadeshwar Shivalinga is considered an exception. Copper vessel is best for offering water, but Abhishek should not be done by pouring milk in a copper vessel. Use silver or steel utensils for milk. Shivalinga is never completely circumambulated. Always do half the circumambulation and never cross the place from where water comes out (Jaladhari).
Religious significance of Mahashivratri fast
In Hindu religion, the festival of Mahashivratri is considered one of the most important and sacred festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva. This festival is celebrated on the Chaturdashi date of Krishna Paksha of Phalgun month. According to religious belief, the marriage of Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati took place on this day. Therefore, on this day Shiva devotees observe fast and worship with full reverence and devotion. By observing fast on Mahashivratri one gets special blessings of Lord Shiva.
It is believed that by observing fast and worshiping Shivalinga on this day, all the sins of a person are destroyed and happiness and prosperity comes in life. This fast is also considered a symbol of self-purification and spiritual progress. According to religious texts, all the wishes of the devotees who observe Mahashivratri fast with true heart are fulfilled. Unmarried people get the life partner of their choice and married people remain happy and peaceful in their married life.
Also read: What is the difference between Shivratri and Mahashivratri that comes every month? know
Disclaimer: The information given in this news is based on religious beliefs and general information. TV9 Bharatvarsha does not confirm this.