Chandra Grahan 2026 India Timings: Do’s and Don’ts During March 3 Lunar Eclipse

India will witness the first lunar eclipse of 2026 on March 3, also known as Chandra Grahan. This celestial event, which will appear as a striking "Blood Moon," coincides with Holi this year, making it a rare astronomical and cultural occurrence.

A total lunar eclipse takes place when the Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, blocking sunlight from reaching the lunar surface. As the Moon passes through the darkest part of Earth's shadow, it appears reddish due to the filtering of sunlight through Earth's atmosphere - hence the name "Blood Moon."

Chandra Grahan 2026: India Timings (IST)

Here are the key timings for viewers in India:

Sutak Period Begins: 6:23 AM on March 3

Penumbral Phase Begins: 2:14 PM IST

Partial Eclipse Begins: Around 3:20 PM IST

Best Viewing Time: Between 6:33 PM and 6:40 PM IST

Eclipse Ends: Around 6:47 PM IST

The total phase, when the Moon turns deep red, will last about 58 minutes. The complete eclipse process, including the faint outer shadow phases, will span approximately five and a half hours.

What is the Sutak Period?

In Hindu tradition, the Sutak period begins roughly nine hours before the start of the eclipse and is considered inauspicious. During this time, religious ceremonies and auspicious activities are generally avoided.

Since Holi falls on the same day, many devotees prefer to perform Holika Dahan rituals after the eclipse concludes. Practices may vary depending on regional customs and beliefs.

Do's During Chandra Grahan

Engage in prayers, meditation or chanting.

Take a ritual bath after the eclipse ends.

Offer donations or perform charitable acts.

Watch the eclipse safely with the naked eye or with binoculars for a clearer view.

Don'ts During Lunar Eclipse

Avoid eating during the Sutak period (as per traditional belief).

Refrain from initiating new or auspicious tasks.

Pregnant women are traditionally advised to stay indoors, though there is no scientific evidence of harm.

Avoid temple rituals or touching idols during the eclipse period.

It is important to note that from a scientific perspective, a lunar eclipse is completely safe to observe and does not pose health risks.

How to Watch the Blood Moon

A lunar eclipse does not require protective glasses. The event can be safely viewed with the naked eye. For a better experience, viewers may choose an open area away from bright city lights and cloud cover. Binoculars or a telescope can enhance details of the Moon's surface during the red phase.