Festival guide
Maha Shivaratri
महाशिवरात्रि
The great night of Lord Shiva. Devotees observe fasting and night-long vigil.
At a glance
How is Maha Shivaratri dated?
Maha Shivaratri is an annual Hindu observance whose Gregorian date can change each year. Samvat calculates each year's date from its tithi Panchang rule; choose a year for the exact date and tithi.
Also known as: Mahashivratri, Shivaratri, Shivratri.
Yearly reference
Maha Shivaratri dates by year
Choose a year for the exact Gregorian date, Hindu date, observance rule, and related calendar links.
Why this date?
Falls on Phalguna Krishna Chaturdashi (14th day of dark fortnight in Phalguna month). The darkest night before Amavasya is considered most auspicious for Shiva worship, typically in February-March.
Learn how Hindu calendar dates are calculatedMaha Shivaratri tithi and Panchang details
Date determined by
Lunar tithiCategory
Major festivalNakshatra
ShravanaDietary practice
FastingSignificance
Considered the night when Shiva performed the cosmic dance (Tandava).
Traditions and Regions
Traditions
Observed in
Common questions
How is Maha Shivaratri dated?
Maha Shivaratri is an annual Hindu observance whose Gregorian date can change each year. Samvat calculates each year's date from its tithi Panchang rule; choose a year for the exact date and tithi.
What is the tithi for Maha Shivaratri?
The Hindu date is calculated separately each year from the tithi, paksha, and Hindu month for Maha Shivaratri. Choose a year above to see the details.
Can the date differ by city?
Yes. Panchang values depend on sunrise, sunset, moonrise, and timezone. Samvat's public festival page uses an India-baseline calculation; local observance can differ by city, sampradaya, or family tradition.