Mahashivratri, one of the biggest festivals in Hindu culture, is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm across India. It is believed that it is the day when Lord Shiva got married to Goddess Parvati. On this special day, people perform Abhishekam on the lingam, midnight puja, and also observe a fast. But certain rules and rituals have to be followed. So, if you are fasting for the first time, here’s a guide on how to fast for Mahashivratri.
Guide On How To Fast For Mahashivratri
Maha Shivaratri 2026 Tithi And Parana Timings In India
Mahashivratri celebrates the union of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva. The festival falls on the Chaturthi tithi of the Krishna paksha in the Phalguna month. This year, Mahashivratri will be celebrated on February 15. The tithi for Mahashivratri 2026 will begin from 05:04 PM on February 15 to 05:34 PM on February 16.
How To Fast For Mahashivratri 2026: Rules And Rituals
The fasting for Mahashivratri starts from 6:42 AM on February 15 and ends at 3:10 PM on February 16. To observe this fast, you must wake up early in the morning, take a bath, and visit the Shiva temple.
Perform Abhishekham with milk and water or panchamrut (milk, dahi, honey, sugar, and ghee) on the Shiva linga. After this, present bilva leaves, fruits, flowers, and bel phal to Lord Shiva.
Light a diya and incense sticks in front of the linga. Chant the main mantra, “Om Namah Shivaya,” 108 times. Now you must take an oath to fast with water in hand. From this very moment, your Mahashivratri fast begins. You can decide which type of fast you want to observe.
Nirjala: You cannot drink water or any liquids, and no food as well.
Only water: You can drink water, but no grains.
Mahashivratri Fasting Food List: What To Eat And Avoid
What to eat:
During Mahashivratri fast, consume sattvic items, which provide sustained energy while keeping the body light for devotion.
- fresh fruits (bananas, apples, papaya, oranges)
- milk products (curd, paneer, kheer)
- dry fruits (almonds, raisins, cashews)
- sabudana khichdi, buckwheat (kuttu) rotis
- water chestnut (singhara) flour items
- Makhana
- coconut water
- Potatoes
- Sweet potatoes
- Pumpkin
What to avoid:
- Grains (wheat, rice, lentils)
- Regular salt
- Onion
- Garlic
- Non-vegetarian dishes
- Alcohol
- Fried/heavy/processed foods
- Caffeine
- Tamasic spices
Basically, you should avoid tamasic foodstuffs as it disrupts spiritual purity and digestion during the vrat.
Summing Up
Mahashivratri 2026 is celebrated with devotees performing puja and fasting for the whole day. The fasting has certain rituals and rules that must be followed in order to get a blessing from Lord Shiva.
FAQs
When Is Mahashivratri 2026?
Mahashivatri 2026 will be observed on February 15, 2026.
What Is The Fast Breaking Time?
The fast-breaking time will be at 3:10 PM on February 16.
Which Fruits Are Best For Mahashivratri Fast?
Bananas, apples, oranges, guavas, and watermelons are the best for the Mahashivratri fast.
Can We Eat Rock Salt (Sendha Namak) During Shivratri?
Yes, you can eat rock salt or sendha namak on Mahashivratri instead of normal table salt.
Can We Drink Water In Mahashivratri Fast?
Yes, drinking water is permitted in the Mahashivratri fast.
Is Coffee Allowed In Mahashivratri Fast?
No, coffee is not allowed in Mahashivratri as it comes under tamasic food.
