New Delhi, February 14: Maha Shivratri, the divine festival celebrating Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati’s sacred union, arrives this Sunday, February 15. Far more than a mere holiday, this night is revered as the ultimate awakening of Shiva consciousness, where devotees harness profound spiritual energy through unwavering devotion.
Falling on the Chaturdashi tithi of Krishna Paksha in Phalgun month, the festival symbolizes divine marriage, enlightenment, and boundless faith. Millions across India will observe strict fasts, offering milk, water, bilva leaves, and dhatura to Shiva Lingams, culminating in all-night vigils filled with mantra chants.
Panchang details reveal the Trayodashi tithi ends on February 14 at 5:04 PM, ushering in Chaturdashi that dominates the main day. Uttara Ashadha Nakshatra prevails until 7:48 PM Sunday, followed by Shravana. Vyatipata Yoga extends till late February 16 at 2:47 AM, with Moon in Capricorn. Sunrise at 7:00 AM, sunset at 6:11 PM.
Auspicious windows abound: Brahma Muhurta from 5:17 AM to 6:08 AM, Abhijit Muhurta 12:13 PM to 12:58 PM, Amrit Kaal 12:59 PM to 2:41 PM. The highlight is Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga from 7:00 AM to 7:48 PM, ideal for rituals and positive endeavors.
Steer clear of inauspicious periods: Rahu Kaal 4:47 PM to 6:11 PM, Yamaganda 12:35 PM to 1:59 PM, Gulikai 3:23 PM to 4:47 PM. Bhadra lingers from 5:04 PM February 14 to 5:23 AM February 16—avoid new ventures then.
The pinnacle of worship occurs during Nishita Kaal at midnight, when Shiva’s blessings are believed to multiply manifold. Temples from Kashi to Ujjain and Somnath buzz with jagarans, drawing pilgrims seeking liberation from negativity and influx of positive cosmic forces. This Maha Shivratri promises transformative power for all sincere devotees.