Chandra Grahan 2026 on March 3. (Photo: Canva)
Chandra Grahan, or Lunar Eclipse, is one of the most spectacular astronomical events observed worldwide. In India, it holds both scientific and spiritual significance. Unlike Surya Grahan (solar eclipse), which occurs during the day, Chandra Grahan happens at night when the Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow and creating the mesmerizing “Blood Moon” effect.
In 2026, India will witness two lunar eclipses, with the first being a Total Lunar Eclipse on March 3, 2026. This eclipse will be partially visible in India during moonrise, making it a Grastodit Chandra Grahan. The second eclipse, a Partial Lunar Eclipse on August 28, will not be visible in India as it occurs during the daytime.
Date: Tuesday, March 3, 2026 (Phalguna Purnima / Holi)
Moonrise Visibility in India: 06:22 PM – 06:26 PM (depending on the city)
Maximum Visible Phase: 06:33 PM – 06:40 PM IST
Eclipse Ends: 06:46 PM – 06:47 PM IST
Penumbral Eclipse Begins: 08:43 UTC
Partial Eclipse Begins: 09:49 UTC
Totality Begins (Blood Moon): 11:03 UTC
Maximum Eclipse: 11:33 UTC
Totality Ends: 12:02 UTC
Partial Eclipse Ends: 13:17 UTC
Penumbral Eclipse Ends: 14:23 UTC
Since the eclipse is visible in India, Sutak Kaal (the inauspicious period) starts approximately 9 hours before the eclipse, around 06:20 AM IST.
The eclipse can be viewed live via online streams from NASA or Time and Date, and skywatchers are advised to observe the moonrise during the total phase for the best experience.
Chandra Grahan is considered spiritually significant in India. People often:
Add Tulsi leaves or Kusha grass to food to protect from negative energies
Chant mantras, meditate, or pray for spiritual growth
Recite sacred texts like the Bhagavad Gita or Ramcharitmanas
Take a bath before and after the eclipse to purify the body
Cover idols and sacred items, cleansing them afterward
Donate food or help the needy after the eclipse
Tradition recommends avoiding:
Eating during the eclipse
Starting new work or ventures
Sleeping during the eclipse
Using sharp objects like knives or scissors
Touching idols or Tulsi plants
Scientifically, a lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth blocks sunlight from reaching the Moon during a full moon (Purnima). The Moon often turns a reddish-orange hue during totality, earning it the nickname “Blood Moon.” This celestial event combines astronomical wonder with spiritual significance, making it one of the most eagerly anticipated events of the year.
Mark your calendars for March 3, 2026, and experience the awe of Blood Moon Rising – Chandra Grahan 2026 in India.
Sofia Babu Chacko is a journalist with over five years of experience reporting on Indian politics, crime, human rights, gender issues, and stories about marginalized communities. She believes journalism plays a crucial role in amplifying unheard voices and bringing attention to issues that truly matter. Sofia has contributed articles to The New Indian Express, Youth Ki Awaaz, and Maktoob Media. She is also a recipient of the 2025 Laadli Media Awards for gender sensitivity. Beyond the newsroom, she is a music enthusiast who enjoys singing. Connect with Sofia on X: https://x.com/SBCism
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