Maha Shivratri in 2028

Significance

Maha Shivratri, "the great night of Shiva," is the most important festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees observe a day-and-night fast and vigil, believed to bring liberation and the fulfilment of wishes.

Tradition holds it as the night of Shiva and Parvati's marriage, and of Shiva's cosmic dance — a night when devotion carries special power.

Rituals

The Shivling is bathed (abhishek) with water, milk, honey and offered bel leaves, dhatura and fruit through four night watches (prahars). Devotees stay awake chanting "Om Namah Shivaya," and break the fast the next morning.

How the date is fixed

It falls on the Chaturdashi of the Krishna paksha of Phalguna, and is decided by the presence of that tithi at midnight (nishita kaal) — the ideal time for worship — so the nishita muhurat is shown above for your location.