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First Lunar Eclipse 2026: Today is a special day for those interested in astronomical events and those who believe in astrological calculations. The first lunar eclipse of the year 2026 is going to occur today, March 3. This will be a total lunar eclipse, also known as a blood moon because during this time the color of the moon appears coppery red. According to astrology, this eclipse is occurring in Leo and Purva Phalguni Nakshatra, which is likely to have a deep impact on various zodiac signs and global situations.

This is the exact time of lunar eclipse

According to Indian time, this first lunar eclipse of the year will start today at 3:20 pm. The middle period of the eclipse will be at 5.04 pm and its end i.e. Moksha Kaal will be at 6.47 pm. Thus, the total duration of this astronomical event is going to be approximately 3 hours 27 minutes.

Time and place of appearance in India

In India, this eclipse will not be seen completely, but only as its Moksha Kaal (completion) after moonrise. According to calculations, the moon will rise today at 5:59 pm, hence the last phase of the eclipse will be visible all over India only after 5:59 pm. This eclipse will be more clearly visible especially in the eastern parts of India, while it may be partially visible in other parts of the country. Apart from India, it will also be visible in Australia, South-East Asia, Pacific Ocean and parts of America.

Correct timing and rules of Sutak period

Since this eclipse will be visible in India, its religious Sutak period will also be valid. According to astrological rules, the Sutak of lunar eclipse starts 9 hours before the eclipse starts. Thus, Sutak period has started from 6.20 am today. During Sutak period, the doors of temples remain closed and worship is prohibited.

According to religious scriptures, it is necessary to take some precautions during Sutak period and eclipse.

• Food and water should be completely abandoned during the eclipse.
• Basil leaves should be added to perishable items like fried foods and milk and curd.
• Doing any kind of negative work during Sutak is considered prohibited.
• Pregnant women are advised to take special precautions.

What to do during and after the eclipse?

It is believed that the results of chanting mantras during eclipse increases tenfold. At this time ‘Om Namah Shivay’ Or you should mentally chant the mantras of your favorite deity. After the eclipse ends, the entire house should be purified and bathed with pure water. Additionally, donating clothes, grains or grass to cows to the needy is considered extremely virtuous.

These zodiac signs will be deeply affected

This lunar eclipse is taking place in Leo, hence the people of Leo, Cancer and Aquarius need to be especially careful. People of Leo zodiac sign have been advised not to take any major decisions in haste and stay away from controversies for the next few days. Moon is considered to be the factor of mind, hence individuals with weak Moon may feel mental tension or anxiety.

Possible impact on the country and the world

Astrologers believe that due to this eclipse, there may be upheaval in global politics and power. This eclipse can make war-like situations more negative and can also have an impact on the power of big politicians. A lunar eclipse is an important astronomical phenomenon when the Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon and casts its shadow on the Moon.