Raksha Bandhan 2026: This year, Raksha Bandhan, the festival of brotherly love, will be celebrated on August 28th. The astronomical event of a lunar eclipse will also occur on this day. Hearing the name of an eclipse often raises questions about the Sutak (sunday ritual), rituals, and auspicious activities. However, this time, it’s a relief for those living in India that the eclipse will not be visible here.
The eclipse will last from morning to afternoon
This lunar eclipse, occurring on August 28th, will begin around 6:53 AM IST and will last until 12:31 PM IST. During the eclipse, a large portion of the Moon will fall into Earth’s shadow. Under such astronomical conditions, the Moon may appear reddish-copper, a phenomenon commonly referred to as a “blood moon.”
Why will we not be able to see the lunar eclipse in India?
It will be daytime in India at the time of the eclipse, so this lunar celestial event will not be visible from here. It will be visible in other parts of the world, including Europe, Africa, Western Asia, and many parts of the Americas. It will also be visible from parts of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
What is the situation regarding the Sutak period in India? (Raksha Bandhan 2026)
In Hindu religious traditions, the approximately nine-hour period before a lunar eclipse is considered the Sutak period. Typically, certain rules are followed regarding worship and religious activities during this period. However, the significance of Sutak is also linked to the visibility of the eclipse.
Since the lunar eclipse on August 28th will not be visible in India, the Sutak period will not be considered valid here. This means that people will not need to stop their normal religious activities due to this eclipse. Worship and prayers can be performed as usual in temples.
Will there be any problem in tying Rakhi on Rakshabandhan?
Since the eclipse will not be visible in India, there will be no specific religious restrictions on the festival of Raksha Bandhan. Sisters can tie Rakhi to their brothers, and families can celebrate the festival as normal.
Yes, family traditions and auspicious calendar times can be considered for tying Rakhi. This means there’s no need to worry about the lunar eclipse; Raksha Bandhan can be celebrated normally in India.
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