Maha Shivaratri Mahotsavam 2026 Thirumala – Kushakkodu Sree Mahadevar Temple

Maha Shivaratri Mahotsavam 2026

Thirumala – Kushakkodu Sree Mahadevar Temple
Maha Shivaratri, the sacred night dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most spiritually significant observances in the Hindu calendar. In 2026, the auspicious celebrations at Thirumala – Kushakkodu Sree Mahadevar Temple will be conducted with deep devotion and traditional grandeur on Sunday, February 15, 2026 (Kumbham 3, Malayalam Era 1201). The festival is expected to draw large numbers of devotees who seek blessings, spiritual upliftment, and participation in the temple’s revered rituals.
                              

Maha Shivaratri symbolizes the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva — representing creation, preservation, and dissolution. Devotees observe fasting, engage in night-long prayers, chant the Panchakshari mantra “Om Namah Shivaya,” and participate in sacred abhishekams. The Thirumala – Kushakkodu temple, known for its serene atmosphere and devotional heritage, becomes a focal point of intense spiritual energy during this festival.

Early Morning Rituals

The celebrations commence in the early hours of the morning, beginning at 4:30 AM with Palliyunarthal, the ritual awakening of the deity. This sacred ceremony marks the start of the divine day. At 5:00 AM, devotees are offered the opportunity for Nirmalya Darshanam, witnessing the deity adorned with the previous night’s offerings a deeply auspicious sight believed to confer blessings.

At 5:15 AM, the Panchamritha Abhishekam is performed, where the Shiva Lingam is bathed in five sacred substances — milk, curd, honey, ghee, and sugar. This ritual signifies purification and surrender. Immediately following, at 5:30 AM, the Maha Ganapathi Homam invokes Lord Ganesha’s blessings for the unhindered progress of the day’s ceremonies.

Akhanda Nama Japam

One of the central spiritual features of the observance is the Ahorathra Akhanda Nama Japam, conducted continuously from 6:00 AM on February 15 to 6:00 AM on February 16. This uninterrupted chanting of the divine name creates an atmosphere charged with sacred vibrations. Devotees often describe this experience as profoundly calming and spiritually elevating.

Daytime Poojas and Offerings

The Usha Pooja at 6:00 AM marks the formal morning worship. As the day progresses, rituals unfold in accordance with temple traditions:

• Ethruthu Pooja – 6:30 PM

• Unniyappam Nivedyam to Lord Ganapathi – 7:00 PM

• Pantheeradi Pooja – 7:30 PM

• Mrityunjaya Homam – 8:30 PM

The Mrityunjaya Homam is particularly significant, invoking Lord Shiva as the conqueror of death and the healer of ailments. Devotees participate seeking protection, longevity, and relief from suffering.

Abhishekams and Special Rituals

From 10:30 AM onward, the Chandana Abhishekam and other special abhishekams will be performed. Throughout the day and night, Yama Abhisheka Poojas take place — symbolizing the four quarters of the night, each representing stages of consciousness and spiritual awakening.

Annadanam – Sacred Feeding

At 12:00 Noon, the temple conducts Annadanam (holy food offering). Feeding devotees is regarded as an act of supreme merit, reflecting compassion and community harmony. Many devotees consider participation in Annadanam an essential part of their Shivaratri observance.

Night Procession and Deeparadhana

Late-night rituals culminate in the Sri Bhoothabali Ezunnellippu, including the ceremonial procession on the Rishabha Vahanam (sacred bull vehicle) at 12:00 Midnight. This visually captivating event represents Shiva’s cosmic presence moving among devotees.

At 6:45 PM, the Deeparadhana fills the sanctum with divine radiance, followed by Prasada Distribution.

Cultural Programs

From 7:00 PM onward, the main stage will host various cultural performances, blending devotion with Kerala’s classical artistic heritage. These programs enhance the festive atmosphere while preserving spiritual focus.

Devotee Participation & Offerings

Devotees may contribute to abhisheka rituals by offering:

• Tender coconut (Karikku)

• Milk

• Honey

• Ghee

Those wishing to conduct the 108 Kalasam ritual may contact the Devaswom Office directly.

Facilities for Vratha Observers

Special arrangements will be provided for devotees observing Shivaratri Vratham, ensuring comfort during fasting and night-long worship.

For details and bookings, devotees may contact:

N. Jayakumar
📞 9447324622 / 9847100838

The Maha Shivaratri Mahotsavam at Thirumala - Kushakkodu Sree Mahadevar Temple promises a deeply transformative spiritual experience. Devotees are warmly invited to participate and receive the boundless grace of Lord Shiva.