Masik Shivratri is the monthly counterpart of Maha Shivratri, observed every month on Krishna Chaturdashi — the 14th day of the waning moon — dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Masik Shivratri Dates in 2026
Masik Shivratri falls once every lunar month on Krishna Chaturdashi, the night before Amavasya. Twelve Masik Shivratris occur through 2026, with the one in Phalgun month coinciding with the grand Maha Shivratri celebration.
Significance of Masik Shivratri
Each Masik Shivratri commemorates the same night of Shiva’s cosmic dance and divine union with Parvati that Maha Shivratri celebrates annually, but on a monthly scale. Devotees observe the vrat to seek Shiva’s blessings for inner peace, marital harmony and the removal of obstacles, making it a regular practice for devout Shiva worshippers throughout the year.
Masik Shivratri Vrat Vidhi
- Observe a day-long fast, taking fruits or a single satvik meal
- Visit a Shiva temple and perform Jal Abhishek with water, milk and honey on the Shivling
- Offer bilva leaves, datura flowers and vibhuti (sacred ash)
- Keep a night vigil (jagran), chanting “Om Namah Shivaya” through the four praharas of the night
- Perform aarti at each prahar if observing the full night vigil
- Break the fast the next morning after the ritual bath
Regional Note
Masik Shivratri is observed at Shiva temples across India, with especially devoted followings in Varanasi, Ujjain, Somnath and other Jyotirlinga towns, where a smaller version of the Shivratri night vigil takes place every month.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Masik Shivratri different from Maha Shivratri?
Masik Shivratri is observed every month on Krishna Chaturdashi, while Maha Shivratri is the grandest occurrence of this tithi, celebrated once a year in the Phalgun month.
Do all twelve Masik Shivratris carry equal significance?
All twelve are considered auspicious for Shiva worship, though the one falling in Phalgun month (Maha Shivratri) is celebrated on the largest scale.
Is a night vigil compulsory on Masik Shivratri?
A full night vigil is traditional but optional — many devotees observe the day fast and evening puja without staying awake through all four praharas.
Masik Shivratri complements weekly Somvar Vrat observances for devoted Shiva worshippers. Explore more Hindu festival dates and rituals on Mythology Mantra. Dates are cross-checked with DrikPanchang.