Maha Shivratri 2025: Know the date, timings, history, and significance of Maha Shivratri
Maha Shivratri is a significant festival celebrated annually to honour Lord Shiva, and will be observed on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.
This year, the Chaturdashi Tithi will start at 11:08 AM on February 26 and end at 08:54 AM the following day. The most favourable time for performing Shiv Puja is during Nishita Kaal, which will take place from 12:09 PM to 12:59 PM on the same day.
According to the Drik Panchang, auspicious timings for Maha Shivratri 2025 are as follows:
- Ratri First Prahar Puja Time—6:19 PM to 9:26 PM, 26th February
- Ratri Second Prahar Puja Time—9:26 PM to 12:34 AM, 27th February
- Ratri Third Prahar Puja Time—12:34 AM to 3:34 AM, 27th February
- Ratri Fourth Prahar Puja Time—3:41 AM to 06:48 AM, 27th February
The festival, translating to the 'Great Night of Shiva,' holds immense importance for those who seek the blessings of Lord Shiva, as his divine energies are considered exceptionally potent during this time.
Historical accounts suggest Maha Shivratri celebrates various aspects such as Lord Shiva's cosmic dance symbolizing creation and destruction, as well as his marital union with Goddess Parvati. Devotees engage in fasting and night vigils, chanting his name to attain blessings of peace, prosperity, and protection.
A magnificent celebration is expected at Shree Sankat Haran Mahadev Mandir on NIBM Road, where festivities will commence early at 5:30 AM with Rudra Swahakar, followed by Maharudrabhishek ceremonies, Homa, and Havan. There will be continuous Prasad distribution from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM, alongside devotional bhajans performed by local mandals.
Evening rituals will include the Dhoop Aarti at 7:00 PM and Bharatanatyam performances, showcasing the cultural vibrancy of the occasion. The event is coordinated by community leaders to provide devotees with both traditional spirituality and contemporary engagement.
For those unable to attend physical celebrations, JioHotstar will stream Maha Shivratri 2025 with live recordings from over 20 Jyotirlingas across the country, offering programs like meditation sessions led by Spiritual leaders, and musical tributes from esteemed artists. The live streaming will begin at 6 PM on February 26 and continue until 6 AM the following day.
To join this auspicious occasion, JioHotstar provides access to 'Mahashivratri: The Divine Night,' highlighting the integration of spirituality and technology, allowing millions to seamlessly partake from home.
Devotees are encouraged to chant various mantras during this sacred event, such as 'Om Namah Shivaay' and 'Om Mrityunjaya Mahadeva,' believed to grant peace, health, and longevity. Special bhajans, rich in their emotive quality, reverberate the essence of devotion throughout the night.
With the day approaching, communities across India are gearing up for this celebration, marking it with enthusiasm and deep reverence for Lord Shiva, inviting everyone to share devotion through mantras and prayers.
Wishing everyone prosperity, peace, and divine blessings this Maha Shivratri 2025!