The first Chandra Grahan (Lunar Eclipse) of 2026 will take place on March 3, 2026, coinciding with the festival of Holi. As this rare celestial event falls on Phalguna Purnima, it has generated significant interest among devotees, astrologers and skywatchers alike.
Many people are particularly asking: What is the eating and cooking time before and after Sutak Kaal during Chandra Grahan 2026? Here is everything you need to know.
Read more: Chandra Grahan 2026 Sutak Kaal
Key Eclipse Timings (India)
Moonrise and Local Visibility in India
This means most people in India will only be able to witness the eclipse for about 20 minutes, from 06:26 PM to 06:46 PM, after moonrise.
Lunar Eclipse Duration Details
Lunar Eclipse Magnitude
A magnitude above 1 indicates a total lunar eclipse, meaning the Moon will be completely covered by Earth’s umbra during its peak phase.
Sutak Kaal 2026: When Does It Start and End?
According to Drik Panchang, the Sutak Kaal for the Lunar Eclipse on March 3, 2026 will be as follows:
Sutak for Children, Elderly and Sick Individuals:
What is a Blood Moon?
During this total lunar eclipse, the Earth will come between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow on the Moon. As sunlight bends through Earth’s atmosphere, the Moon may appear reddish, a phenomenon commonly known as a Blood Moon.
Holika Dahan 2026: Correct Date
As per traditional beliefs mentioned in astrological discussions, Holika Dahan is advised to be performed on March 3, 2026, after the eclipse ends.
Chandra Grahan 2026 Do’s and Don’ts
Many Hindus associate eclipses with the mythological shadow planets Rahu and Ketu and follow specific precautions.
Disclaimer: This article is based on commonly held beliefs and traditional practices. It is intended for informational purposes only. ET does not support, promote or endorse any particular religious practice, ritual or astrological claim mentioned herein. Readers are advised to exercise their own discretion.
Many people are particularly asking: What is the eating and cooking time before and after Sutak Kaal during Chandra Grahan 2026? Here is everything you need to know.
Read more: Chandra Grahan 2026 Sutak Kaal
Chandra Grahan 2026 Date and Timings in India
According to the detailed astronomical data, here are the full timings for the Lunar Eclipse on March 3, 2026:Key Eclipse Timings (India)
- First Contact with Penumbra: 02:16 PM
- First Contact with Umbra: 03:21 PM
- Total Phase Begins: 04:35 PM
- Maximum of Lunar Eclipse: 05:04 PM
- Total Phase Ends: 05:33 PM
- Last Contact with Umbra: 06:46 PM
- Last Contact with Penumbra: 07:52 PM
Moonrise and Local Visibility in India
- Moonrise: 06:26 PM
- Lunar Eclipse Starts (with Moonrise): 06:26 PM
- Lunar Eclipse Ends (Visible Phase): 06:46 PM
- Local Eclipse Duration: 20 minutes 28 seconds
This means most people in India will only be able to witness the eclipse for about 20 minutes, from 06:26 PM to 06:46 PM, after moonrise.
Lunar Eclipse Duration Details
- Duration of Total Phase: 57 minutes 27 seconds
- Duration of Partial Phase: 3 hours 25 minutes 17 seconds
- Duration of Penumbral Phase: 5 hours 35 minutes 45 seconds
Lunar Eclipse Magnitude
- Magnitude of Lunar Eclipse: 1.14
- Magnitude of Penumbral Eclipse: 2.18
A magnitude above 1 indicates a total lunar eclipse, meaning the Moon will be completely covered by Earth’s umbra during its peak phase.
Sutak Kaal 2026: When Does It Start and End?
According to Drik Panchang, the Sutak Kaal for the Lunar Eclipse on March 3, 2026 will be as follows:- Sutak Begins: 09:39 AM
- Sutak Ends: 06:46 PM
Sutak for Children, Elderly and Sick Individuals:
- Sutak Begins: 03:28 PM
- Sutak Ends: 06:46 PM
What is a Blood Moon?
During this total lunar eclipse, the Earth will come between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow on the Moon. As sunlight bends through Earth’s atmosphere, the Moon may appear reddish, a phenomenon commonly known as a Blood Moon.Holika Dahan 2026: Correct Date
As per traditional beliefs mentioned in astrological discussions, Holika Dahan is advised to be performed on March 3, 2026, after the eclipse ends.Chandra Grahan 2026 Do’s and Don’ts
Many Hindus associate eclipses with the mythological shadow planets Rahu and Ketu and follow specific precautions.- Suggested Practices During the 15-Minute Visibility Window (Approx. 6:30 PM to 6:46 PM)
- Avoid using mobile phones, television or engaging in gossip.
- Sit in a quiet place and meditate.
- Chant mantras associated with the Moon.
- Perform naam japa if unable to chant full mantras.
Disclaimer: This article is based on commonly held beliefs and traditional practices. It is intended for informational purposes only. ET does not support, promote or endorse any particular religious practice, ritual or astrological claim mentioned herein. Readers are advised to exercise their own discretion.
