Wed Feb 19 08:36:53 UTC 2025: ## Maha Shivratri 2025: Millions to Observe Night of Shiva on February 26th

**NEW DELHI –** Millions of Hindus will observe Maha Shivratri, the “Great Night of Shiva,” on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. This significant religious festival honors Lord Shiva, a supreme deity in Hinduism, and symbolizes the triumph over darkness and ignorance.

The festival commemorates Lord Shiva’s divine cosmic dance, representing creation, preservation, and destruction, and celebrates the union of Shiva and Parvati, signifying cosmic balance. Devotees traditionally observe a strict fast, stay awake throughout the night chanting prayers, and seek blessings from Lord Shiva.

While the date varies regionally – falling in the month of Phalgun in North India and Magh in South India – the core essence remains consistent. In 2025, the Nishita Kaal Puja (midnight worship) will be held between 12:09 AM and 12:59 AM on February 27th.

Celebrations typically involve decorating Shiva Linga (a symbolic representation of Shiva) with flowers and bael leaves, offering prayers, and partaking in a day-long fast, broken with a light sattvik meal. Devotees visit temples, participate in processions, and light lamps throughout the night. Offerings to Lord Shiva often include bhang, fruits, honey, ghee, sweets, and milk. Many temples across India will host special nighttime processions of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The festival marks the spiritual renewal associated with the transition from winter to spring.

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