New Delhi: On March 3, 2026, India is witnessing an important celestial event, a Lunar Eclipse, known as Chandra Grahan. Since this eclipse is visible in India, traditional practices such as Sutak Kaal are being observed in many households. A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth moves between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon. In Indian belief, the Moon represents the mind and emotions, which is why many people choose prayer, meditation, and quiet reflection during the eclipse period.
What type of Grahan is happening today?
Today’s grahan is a Chandra Grahan, which means a lunar eclipse. A lunar eclipse happens when:
- The Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon
- The Earth’s shadow falls on the Moon
- The Moon appears darker or slightly reddish
- Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse is completely safe to watch with your naked eyes.
Chandra Grahan 2026: Exact timings in India (IST)
- Penumbral eclipse begins – 3:20 PM
- Partial eclipse begins – 4:35 PM
- Maximum eclipse – around 6:10 PM
- Partial eclipse ends – 7:45 PM
- Penumbral eclipse ends – 9:00 PM
- Moonrise visibility in many cities will be during the evening, so you may see the eclipse after sunset when the
- Moon appears.
- Timings can slightly differ by city, so always check your local Panchang for exact details.
Will Sutak Kaal apply today?
Yes. Since the Lunar Eclipse March 3, 2026 is visible in India, Sutak Kaal is observed. Sutak generally begins about nine hours before the eclipse starts and ends after the eclipse finishes.
During Sutak, many people follow traditional restrictions.
What should you avoid during Chandra Grahan?
As per traditional beliefs, avoid:
- Starting new work
- Performing weddings or major rituals
- Doing havan or temple ceremonies
- Cooking fresh food during eclipse hours
- Making big financial decisions
- These practices are followed as part of cultural tradition, not because of scientific danger.
What should you do during today’s Grahan?
Instead of regular activity, this time is considered good for inner focus. You can:
- Chant Gayatri Mantra
- Chant Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra
- Sit quietly in meditation
- Read spiritual texts
- Pray calmly
After the eclipse ends
- Take a bath
- Clean your prayer area
- Donate rice, milk, or white clothes
- Resume regular work
- These simple steps are believed to maintain mental and emotional balance.
Is it safe to watch Lunar Eclipse?
Yes. A lunar eclipse is safe to watch directly. You can:
- Look at the Moon with your naked eyes
- Use binoculars for better detail
- Take photographs
- No protective glasses are needed.
Does Chandra Grahan affect everyone?
Astrologically, the Moon represents emotions and the mind. During a lunar eclipse:
- Some people may feel more emotional
- Old thoughts or memories may come up
- There may be restlessness
- This is temporary and normal. Staying calm helps.
- People who follow astrology sometimes check their Moon sign to understand personal effects.
A lunar eclipse is both a scientific event and a traditional moment of pause. You can observe it peacefully without fear. Follow cultural rules if you believe in them, or simply enjoy watching a rare sky event. Stay calm, stay aware, and let the day pass with balance.
Written by: Tanya Singh, Astropatri.com.
For feedback, please write to hello@astropatri.com.
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