Chandra Grahan 2026 India LIVE Streaming: When And Where Exactly To Watch March 3 Lunar Eclipse

India will witness the first lunar eclipse of 2026 on March 3, a total Chandra Grahan that will also coincide with Holi this year. The rare alignment of a Blood Moon and the festival of colours is being described as an uncommon astronomical and cultural event, occurring after nearly a century.

The lunar eclipse can be viewed live on timeanddate.com's YouTube channel as soon as it begins. Many people are curious or fearful about eclipses, but scientists assure that lunar eclipses are safe to watch with the naked eye. Unlike solar eclipses, there is no risk of eye damage from radiation during a lunar eclipse.

In most areas, the ideal time to view the eclipse is when the Moon is high in the sky and clearly visible, preferably away from bright city lights and cloud cover. If poor weather or your location prevents a clear view, the event can also be watched through a live online stream.

Lunar Eclipse 2026: Date and Time (IST)

On March 3, the lunar eclipse will begin in the afternoon and conclude in the early evening, lasting several hours in total. The event is expected to start at around 3:20 PM IST, with the optimal viewing window falling between 6:33 PM and 6:40 PM IST. The eclipse will officially end at approximately 6:47 PM IST.

A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, completely blocking sunlight from illuminating the lunar surface. As the Moon passes through the darkest part of Earth's shadow, it appears to turn a deep reddish colour - a phenomenon popularly known as a "Blood Moon."

The total phase, when the Moon appears fully red, will last for about 58 minutes as it remains entirely within Earth's shadow. Including the subtle outer shadow phases, the complete eclipse event will span roughly five and a half hours.

Lunar Eclipse Visibility

The lunar eclipse will be visible across large parts of Asia, Australia, North America and the Pacific region. In India, skywatchers are expected to get a clear view if weather conditions permit.

In parts of Europe and Africa, the Moon may set before the deepest phase of the eclipse, limiting visibility.

Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse is completely safe to watch with the naked eye. Experts say binoculars or a small telescope can enhance the viewing experience but are not necessary.

Sutak and Holi

Since the eclipse coincides with Holi, many are paying attention to religious timings. The Sutak period - considered inauspicious in Hindu tradition - begins roughly nine hours before the eclipse.

During Sutak, auspicious ceremonies are generally avoided. Religious scholars suggest that Holika Dahan rituals should preferably be performed after 6:47 PM, once the eclipse period concludes. Customs may vary across regions.

When to Watch Chandra Grahan 2026 in India

According to astronomical calculations, the eclipse will unfold in multiple stages:

Sutak Period Begins: 6:23 AM, March 3

Penumbral Phase: 2:14 PM IST (subtle and hard to detect)

Eclipse Begins: Around 3:20 PM IST

Best Viewing Window: 6:33 PM to 6:40 PM IST

Total Eclipse (Blood Moon Phase): 11:01 PM to 12:22 AM IST

Eclipse Ends: 6:47 PM IST

The total phase - when the Moon appears fully red - will last approximately 58 minutes. The entire eclipse, including faint outer phases, will span nearly five and a half hours.

Why Does the Moon Turn Red?

During a total lunar eclipse, sunlight passes through Earth's atmosphere before reaching the Moon. The atmosphere filters out shorter blue wavelengths and allows red light to bend around the planet, casting a reddish glow on the lunar surface.

The March full moon is also traditionally known as the "Worm Moon," marking the time in the Northern Hemisphere when soil begins to warm and early signs of spring appear.

When Is the Next Total Lunar Eclipse?

Astronomers note that total lunar eclipses occur every 18 months to three years. The next total lunar eclipse is expected on December 31, 2028, though visibility will vary by region. A partial lunar eclipse is also scheduled for August 28, 2026.

For sky enthusiasts and festival-goers alike, March 3 promises a rare spectacle - a crimson Moon lighting up the night sky on the same day India celebrates Holi.