Chandra Grahan 2026 Live Updates:
The first lunar eclipse of the year has commenced. According to Indian time,
this lunar eclipse is scheduled from 3:20 PM to 6:46 PM.
The lunar eclipse will be visible in India, thus its 'Sutak' period is in effect, ending with the eclipse. The lunar eclipse is occurring in the Leo sign and Poorva Phalguni nakshatra. In India, this lunar eclipse will be 'Grastodit', meaning the moon will be eclipsed before moonrise. The visible time for the lunar eclipse in India is stated to be from 06:26 PM to 06:46 PM. Let's delve into every significant update related to this lunar phenomenon...
05.48 PM:
A rare glimpse of the year's first lunar eclipse has come from Panama City, Central America. People have witnessed the mesmerizing 'Blood Moon' in the sky.
Source: aajtak
05.41 PM:
Another user from Florida, USA, uploaded a picture of the lunar eclipse on X, stating, 'Good morning, Central Florida. Early risers got to see the breathtaking view of the lunar eclipse. If you missed it, now is your chance to catch it.
05.31 PM:
Rare images of the lunar eclipse are emerging from around the world. This particular photo was uploaded by a user from Australia on their X handle.
05.02 PM: What to do during the lunar eclipse
Source: aajtak
05.05 PM: Exercise Caution While Playing with Colors on Holi
According to astrologer Praveen Mishra, it's intriguing that a lunar eclipse has occurred between Holika Dahan and the colorful Holi. A gap day has arisen because of the eclipse. Some people plan to perform Holika Dahan after the lunar eclipse today. In such a scenario, the effects of the eclipse could reflect during Dhulendi the next day. He suggests that people exercise caution when playing with colors. Those not familiar should carefully consider applying colors. The lunar eclipse might influence people's moods, potentially leading to quarrels or disputes.
05.02 PM: Where Will the Lunar Eclipse Be Visible First in India?
The lunar eclipse will first be visible in Itanagar, the capital of Arunachal Pradesh. Besides, it will become visible early in many major cities of Northeast India, including Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, Assam, Manipur, and Meghalaya.
04.58 PM: How Does the Lunar Eclipse Affect Us
According to astrology, the impact of a lunar eclipse is most significant on the mind and emotions. During this time, stress, confusion, and negative thoughts may increase, so staying calm and avoiding major decisions is advised.
04.55 PM: Effects of the Eclipse for the Next 14 Days
04.46 PM: What to Do After the Eclipse Ends
After the eclipse ends, follow some specific practices. First, mix Ganga water in your bathing water and bathe. Sprinkle Ganga water throughout your house, then clean the temple and bathe the idols. Afterward, perform rituals with dedication.
04.33 PM: How Long Does the Effect of the Lunar Eclipse Last?
Astrologer Rajkumar Shastri mentions that the influence of a lunar eclipse begins three days prior and lasts three days after. Therefore, auspicious events are usually avoided during these six days.
04.20 PM: When Does the Sutak Period End?
The Sutak period begins 9 hours before the lunar eclipse. The Sutak period for this eclipse started at 6:20 AM and will end with the eclipse itself at 6:46 PM.
04.00 PM: Impact of Lunar Eclipse on Economic Conditions
According to Acharya Shailesh Tiwari, the planetary alignment during the lunar eclipse suggests signals of a major conflict. The universe's largest planet, Jupiter, is also involved in this conjunction. Consequently, a significant crash in the stock market is possible. A surge in gold, silver, and copper prices may occur, as well as a decline in cryptocurrency values.
03.53 PM: When Will the Blood Moon Be Visible?
The full lunar eclipse occurs when the moon is entirely in Earth's shadow. During this time, the moon appears red to observers on Earth. Scientists refer to this phenomenon as the 'Blood Moon.' Today, areas across the globe will witness the Blood Moon from 4:34 PM to 5:33 PM. During this period, the moon's entire or most part will be concealed by Earth's shadow, offering viewers a spectacular sight.
03.49 PM: Why Is Tulsi Leaf Beneficial?
Before the Sutak period of a lunar eclipse begins, it is customary to place a Tulsi leaf in food and drinks. Astrologer Nandita Pandey explains that Tulsi has potent properties and is believed to be favored by Lord Vishnu. Therefore, adding Tulsi leaves to food wards off the negative effects of the eclipse. If Tulsi is inaccessible, you can substitute it with Kusha grass or clove buds.
03.40 PM: What to Do During the Lunar Eclipse?
Astrologer Rajkumar Shastri advises taking special care during the lunar eclipse visible in India on March 3. Individuals born under the Leo sign and Poorva Phalguni nakshatra should be extra cautious. Close windows and doors to avoid going outside during the eclipse. Since the ruling planet of Leo is the sun, praying to the Sun God and reciting the Aditya Hridaya Stotra is recommended.
03.30 PM: When Will the Lunar Eclipse Be Visible in India?
On March 3, moonrise is expected in India around 06:26 PM. As soon as the moon rises, the lunar eclipse will become visible in various parts of India. The eclipse will continue until 06:46 PM.
03.24 PM: Lunar Eclipse Timing
Lunar Eclipse Begins:
3:20 PM
Lunar Eclipse Ends:
6:46 PM
Complete Lunar Eclipse (Totality):
From 4:34 PM to 5:33 PM
Sutak Period Begins:
6:20 AM
Sutak Period Ends:
6:46 PM
03.15 PM: What's the Connection Between Eclipses and Wars?
Astrologer Ajay Bhambi states that wherever an eclipse is visible, its influence becomes apparent there. On a personal level, individuals with afflicted planets in their birth charts experience more effects. Interestingly, U.S. President Donald Trump was born during a lunar eclipse, and coincidentally, during the eclipse, the U.S. launched an attack on Iran. Eclipses also have implications on nature.
03.00 PM: What is the Sutak Period?
The Sutak period begins 9 hours before a lunar eclipse and 12 hours before a solar eclipse. Some people get anxious about the Sutak period, especially pregnant women. Astrologer Praveen Mishra clarifies that if pregnant women remain indoors during the eclipse and Sutak, they will not encounter adverse effects. They can follow their usual routines and maintain a positive mindset.
02.49 PM: 'This Lunar Eclipse is Not Only Bad, but Also Good'
Astrologer Acharya Raj Mishra references scriptures to suggest that rituals like bathing, donating, chanting, and penance during an eclipse bring manifold benefits. Engaging in such practices during this time can yield immense rewards and even nullify past sins.
02.40 PM: Types of Lunar Eclipses
Total Lunar Eclipse:
When the moon is entirely in Earth's shadow.
Partial Lunar Eclipse:
When part of the moon is in Earth's shadow.
Penumbral Lunar Eclipse:
When the moon passes through the faint outer shadow of Earth.
02.18 PM: What is the Liberation Time of the Lunar Eclipse?
Astrologer Dr. Y. Rakhi explains that the influence of a lunar eclipse lasts from the Sutak period to the Moksha period. The lunar eclipse achieves liberation during the Moksha period at 7:53 PM, when the moon fully emerges from the eclipse's shadow. However, this does not apply to ordinary individuals. It is recommended to cleanse yourself and your home immediately after the eclipse at 6:46 PM.
02.03 PM: Difficult Lunar Eclipse for These 2 Zodiac Signs
According to Acharya Gaurav, the lunar eclipse in the Leo sign will not only affect Leo but also Aquarius, positioned 180 degrees opposite Leo. Both zodiac signs should take precautions and avoid making significant decisions or engaging in confrontations. Drive carefully during this period.
01.53 PM: What is the Total Duration of the Lunar Eclipse?
According to Indian time, the lunar eclipse on March 3 will begin at 03:20 PM and end at 06:46 PM, spanning approximately 3 hours and 26 minutes.
How to Prepare for Holi During the Lunar Eclipse?
The lunar eclipse has raised concerns about Holi preparations, including Holika Dahan and the colorful Holi (Dhulendi). Priest Sanjay Sharma mentions that since the Sutak is in effect, Holi-related food preparations will not occur during this time. Any food prepared during the eclipse period is considered toxic, so individuals should cleanse themselves and their homes before preparing celebratory dishes like Gujiya or Pakoras after the eclipse.
01.25 PM: How Much Does the Lunar Eclipse Affect Holi?
Due to the lunar eclipse coinciding with the Phalguna full moon, people are confused about the Holika Dahan date. Priest Shailendra Pandey advises those unable to perform Holika Dahan on March 2 can do so after the lunar eclipse ends on March 3. The eclipse concludes at 06:46 PM, after which neither the eclipse nor the shadow of Bhara is present. You can play colors freely on March 4.
01.14 PM: How Much Does the Lunar Eclipse Affect the World?
Priest Shailendra Pandey reports that the lunar eclipse involves Mars, Rahu, and Ketu, creating a fiery combination signaling war and destruction. War-like situations may arise globally. People's positions may shift unexpectedly, and unnecessary confrontations may surface.
01.05 PM: Lunar Eclipse in the Fire Sign Affects Nations
According to Priest Shailendra Pandey, the lunar eclipse sees the moon and Ketu together in Leo, a fire element. The influence of Mars, Rahu, and the fiery nature of Leo contribute to unrest signaled globally.
12.51 PM: Where in India Can a Total Lunar Eclipse Be Seen?
The total lunar eclipse will be visible across the northeastern region of India, providing a clear view of the eclipse. States such as Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, and West Bengal can witness a full lunar eclipse.
12.44 PM: Where in the Country Will the Partial Lunar Eclipse Be Visible?
The partial lunar eclipse can be observed in numerous places, including Delhi-NCR, Bihar, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Chandigarh, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala, Lakshadweep, Odisha, Puducherry, Rajasthan, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh.
12.40 PM: Safety Precautions for Pregnant Women, Elderly, and Sick Individuals
Although the Sutak period does not apply, pregnant women, elders, and ill individuals should avoid unnecessary outings. Avoid deserted places and risky activities. Stay away from large bodies of water and fire.
12.28 PM: Why Does the Moon Appear Red?
According to NASA, during a full lunar eclipse, the moon appears deep red due to Earth's atmosphere bending sunlight that reaches it. This particular eclipse will last approximately 58 minutes and can be observed without a telescope.
12.20 PM: Sutak Exemptions for These 4 Categories
The Sutak period is generally imposed nine hours before a lunar eclipse for the general public, except for four categories: pregnant women, seniors, children, and patients, who are allowed uninterrupted meals and medicine. The Sutak for children, notably under the age of ten, is restricted to three and a half hours prior to the eclipse's end.
12.14 PM: Recite These Mantras During the Sutak and Eclipse
Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra
ॐ त्र्यम्बकं यजामहे सुगन्धिं पुष्टिवर्धनम् उर्वारुकमिव बन्धनान् मृत्योर्मुक्षीय मामृतात्
Gayatri Mantra
ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः तत्सवितुर्वरेण्यं भर्गो देवस्य धीमहि धियो यो नः प्रचोदयात्
Chandra Mantra
ॐ सोम सोमाय नमः
Divine Mantra
हरे कृष्ण हरे कृष्ण, कृष्ण कृष्ण हरे हरे हरे राम हरे राम, राम राम हरे हरे
12.10 PM: What to Do During the Sutak Period?
During the Sutak period of a lunar eclipse, it is considered auspicious to chant mantras and remember God. Chant Gayatri Mantra, Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra, or prayers dedicated to Lord Shiva or Vishnu. After the Sutak ends, donate and offer alms according to your capability.
12.08 PM: What to Avoid During the Sutak Period?
The first lunar eclipse of the year is currently in its Sutak period. There are specific precautions to keep in mind. During the Sutak, avoid food preparations, worship, and touching deity idols. Avoid starting new auspicious tasks. Whenever possible, avoid going outdoors during this time. Avoid chopping vegetables, cooking, and taking risks. Refrain from social gatherings.
12.02 PM: Where and How to Watch the Lunar Eclipse?
The lunar eclipse spectacle will appear in the skies across India at moonrise today. NASA states the lunar eclipse can be viewed directly without telescopes. Additionally, you can watch the eclipse live on Timeanddate.com.
In Mathura, the effects of the lunar eclipse amidst Holi preparations will be evident in religious events. Most major temples in Braj will remain closed since morning, and Holi celebrations will be postponed due to the eclipse.
Nonetheless, the Chaturvedi Society's traditional Holi Dola by Vishram…
