Mahashivratri, the grand night dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a festival of immense spiritual significance. Devotees observe fasts, perform pujas, and chant mantras to seek blessings and liberation. In 2025, this sacred night falls on 26 February. To make the most of this auspicious occasion, understanding the precise timings for various rituals is crucial.
Why Do Auspicious Timings Matter?
According to Hindu scriptures, certain planetary alignments and lunar phases during Mahashivratri are considered particularly potent for worship. Performing rituals during these "shubh muhurats" (auspicious timings) is believed to amplify the benefits of the prayers and fasts.
Mahashivratri 2025: Key Timings
Nishita Kaal Puja: This is considered the most significant puja of Mahashivratri. It is performed during the midnight period.
From 12:09 AM to 12:59 AM
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Chaturthi Tithi Begins: The Chaturthi Tithi, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, begins on:
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11:08 AM on February 26
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Chaturthi Tithi Ends: The Chaturthi Tithi ends on:
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8:54 AM on February 27
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Four Prahar Pujas: Many devotees perform four prahar pujas throughout the night, each dedicated to a specific aspect of Lord Shiva. These timings will be divided through the night, and will be available closer to the date.
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First Prahar Puja: 26th February 2025-06:19 PM to 09:26 PM
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Second Prahar Puja: 26th February 2025-09:26 PM to 12:34 AM
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Third Prahar Puja: 27th February 2025-12:34 AM to 03:41 AM
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Fourth Prahar Puja: 27th February 2025-03:41 AM to 06:48 AM
What is the difference between Shivratri and Mahashivratri?
The terms "Shivratri" and "Mahashivratri" are related, but they denote different levels of observance:
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"Shivratri" literally means "night of Shiva."
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It occurs every month, on the 14th day of the dark half (Krishna Paksha) of the lunar month. So, there are 12 Shivratris in a year.
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"Mahashivratri" translates to "the Great Night of Shiva."
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It is a single, major annual festival that holds immense spiritual significance.
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It falls on the 14th night of the dark half of the Hindu month of Phalguna (usually February or March).
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Mahashivratri is considered the most important of all the Shivratris.
In essence:
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All Mahashivratri celebrations are Shivratri celebrations, but not all Shivratri celebrations are Mahashivratri.
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Mahashivratri is the most prominent and widely observed Shivratri.
Therefore, while Shivratri is a recurring monthly observance, Mahashivratri is the grand, annual celebration.
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