Mahashivratri 2026: Char Prahar Puja Timings and Simple Ritual Guide

February 15, 2026: Shiva is worshipped with great devotion on Mahashivratri. Devotees fast, chant mantras, visit temples, and stay awake through the night. Among all rituals, the Char Prahar Puja is considered the most important.

The belief is clear and strong. If a devotee prays to Lord Shiva during all four Prahars of the night with true faith, their wishes may be fulfilled. That is why many people plan their prayers carefully and follow each Prahar step by step.

Char Prahar Puja Timings for Mahashivratri 2026

• First Prahar: 06:11 PM to 09:23 PM
• Second Prahar: 09:23 PM to 12:35 AM
• Third Prahar: 12:35 AM to 03:47 AM
• Fourth Prahar: 03:47 AM to 06:59 AM

Devotees who follow all four Prahars stay awake the whole night and move calmly from one phase of worship to the next.

Puja Vidhi for Each Prahar

First Prahar

The puja begins with Abhishek of the Shivling using water and milk. Devotees offer belpatra, bhang, dhatura, fruits, and white flowers. Chanting “Om Namah Shivaya” 108 times is common. The Prahar ends with aarti using camphor.

Second Prahar

In this phase, the Shivling is bathed with curd and ghee. Devotees again offer fresh fruits and flowers. Many people chant Shiva mantras or recite Shiva Stotra and Rudrashtakam during this time.

Third Prahar

Abhishek is done with water mixed with honey and sugar. This shows sweetness and devotion. Offerings include sandalwood, akshat, belpatra, and dhatura. Many devotees spend this time in silent prayer and meditation.

Fourth Prahar

This is the final phase. The Shivling is bathed with Ganga jal or clean water. Devotees offer fruits, naivedya, belpatra, and flowers. The night ends with aarti and a prayer asking for forgiveness for any mistakes.

Important Rules Devotees Follow

Many people use different items for Abhishek in each Prahar, such as milk, curd, honey, sugarcane juice, or ghee. Offering something new in every Prahar is considered very good. Fresh flowers or fruits are often used each time. Repeating the ritual with sincerity is believed to bring blessings.

Disclaimer: This information is based on religious beliefs and traditions. There is no scientific proof for these practices. Udaipur Times does not confirm or guarantee the accuracy of this information.