Sun Feb 23 23:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Maha Shivratri 2025 to be Celebrated on February 26th

**New Delhi, [Date of Publication]** – Maha Shivratri, the significant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, will be observed on Wednesday, February 26th, 2025. This date holds immense religious significance as it marks the celestial wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and the manifestation of Lord Shiva as a Jyotirlinga (a fiery pillar of light).

The festival’s nighttime rituals hold particular importance, especially the “Maha Nishita Kaal,” the period when Lord Shiva appeared as a Jyotirlinga. Devotees observe the night with prayers and offerings. Traditionally, processions celebrating the divine couple’s wedding are also held.

The auspicious Phalguna Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi Tithi begins on February 26th at 9:19 AM and concludes on February 27th at 8:09 AM. The occurrence of Chaturdashi Tithi at midnight on February 26th determines the celebration date.

This year’s Maha Shivratri will fall under the Shravana Nakshatra (until 4:10 PM) followed by Dhanishta Nakshatra, and the Chhatra Yoga will be prevalent throughout the day. The four Praharas (periods of time) and Maha Nishita Kaal are considered most auspicious for worship. These periods will begin at 6:17 PM, 9:13 PM, 12:21 AM (Feb 27th), and 3:25 AM (Feb 27th) respectively.

Astrologically, the planetary positions are also favorable, with Venus in its exalted sign, Jupiter forming a Raj Yoga, and the Sun and Mercury creating a Budhaditya Yoga alongside Saturn. This combination is believed to enhance the significance of the day.

Devotees perform various rituals including a Ganga snan (bath in the Ganges or other holy water), offering milk, belpatra leaves, bhang, dhatura, honey, sugarcane, and berries to Lord Shiva. These offerings are believed to bring prosperity, happiness, and spiritual peace. Specific puja timings for the four Praharas on February 26th and 27th are provided in the original text.

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