Maha Shivaratri - The Night of Lord Shiva - 2026
Maha Shivaratri - The Night of Lord Shiva
Maha Shivaratri is one of the most sacred nights in the spiritual calendar, dedicated to Lord Shiva - the eternal, self-manifested consciousness; the festival commemorates the marriage of Shiva and Parvati, symbolising the union of consciousness (Shiva) and energy (Shakti). Observed through fasting, prayer, meditation, and night-long worship, this auspicious occasion invites devotees to purify the mind, awaken inner awareness, and align with the universal truth symbolised by Shiva.
Who Is Lord Shiva?
Lord Shiva is Svayambhu - self-manifested, unborn, and eternal. He was not created by anyone; he manifested himself as the first creative consciousness in Anant Brahmand, the endless universe. Shiva was, is, and will be - beyond time, form, and limitation.
The endless universe can be understood as the Cosmic Mother, and within her resides this supreme consciousness - not dormant, but fully present - like an embryo in the womb of a human mother. From this divine presence arises resonance, the primordial vibration known as Nada.
Nada and OM - The Sound of Creation
This first vibration is OM, the eternal sound that still resonates throughout the entire universe- not only on Earth, but across all realms of existence. Every atom, every star, every living cell vibrates with this sound. Even our blood cells resonate with this original manifestation of Lord Shiva.
The awakening of cosmic consciousness is the manifestation of Shiva - the realisation:
“I am One, and now I will multiply.”
From Shiva’s consciousness emerged countless solar systems, stars, planets, visible and invisible dimensions, and all elements of creation. The universe itself is an expression of Shiva.
The Meaning of Shiva
Shiva is not merely a deity; Shiva is consciousness itself - pure, crystal clear, and limitless.
- Shiva is Truth
- Shiva is Beauty
- Shiva is Liberation
Shiva is the source from which all creation arises and into which all dissolves. The entire universe is his form, symbolised by the Shiva Lingam, representing the infinite, formless reality.
Shiva is also known as one of the most merciful of all divine forms. With even a simple, sincere prayer, he becomes pleased and bestows grace, protection, and fulfilment of wishes.
Maha Shivaratri - A Sacred Night
Maha Shivaratri, the Great Night of Shiva, is a night of profound spiritual power. On this auspicious occasion, millions of devotees across the world worship, adore, and meditate upon Lord Shiva, chanting his sacred name with deep devotion.
Vishwaguruji reminds us: “Only pure love can liberate you.”
On this sacred day, devotees traditionally fast from sunrise until the following morning. Fasting is not merely a physical discipline; it is a spiritual practice that balances one’s energy, purifies consciousness, cultivates control over the senses, and harmonises intellect and emotions. Through fasting, spiritual energy intensifies in the heart and mind, allowing for deeper meditation and inner stillness.
In Shiva temples worldwide, abhisheka—the ceremonial bathing of the Shiva Lingam—is performed continuously throughout the night with water, milk, honey, and other sacred offerings. As mantras echo through the temples, the atmosphere becomes charged with divine energy and rising consciousness. During the abhisheka, sacred mantras such as Om Namah Shivaya and the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra are reverently repeated.
Among the most powerful mantras associated with Lord Shiva is the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, known as the mantra for victory over death. This sacred chant offers protection from accidents and misfortune, shields against negative energies and influences, and provides strength during illness and challenging circumstances. It also cultivates spiritual fearlessness and inner stability.
The Mahamrityunjaya Mantra is regarded as one of the greatest mantras for healing, protection, and transcendence.
The Eternal Presence of Shiva
Shiva is eternal - beyond birth and death, beyond creation and dissolution. He is the silent witness, the supreme consciousness, the liberator of souls.
On Maha Shivaratri, 15 February 2026, may this sacred night awaken the Shiva consciousness within us all.
May devotion deepen, truth shine brighter, and liberation move closer.
Om Namah Shivaya. 🕉️
Meditate with Vishwaguruji:
Join a guided meditation with Vishwaguruji and deepen your connection with God Shiva through this profound practice: Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra Meditation
