The first celestial event of 2026, a partial lunar eclipse, is set to take place today, March 3. This event holds significant importance for both astronomers and the general public as it will be visible across most parts of India. According to the astronomical calendar, the eclipse will occur in the Leo zodiac sign and the Purva Phalguni constellation. A lunar eclipse happens when the Earth positions itself directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow on the lunar surface. Today's event is classified as a partial or 'Khandagras' lunar eclipse, where only a portion of the Moon enters the Earth's umbra.
Precise Timings and Duration in India
According to Indian Standard Time (IST), the lunar eclipse will commence in the afternoon. The initial phase of the eclipse is scheduled to begin at 03:20 PM. The maximum eclipse will occur during the evening hours, and the event will conclude with the 'Moksha Kaal' at 06:46 PM. The total duration of this celestial phenomenon will be approximately 3 hours 27 minutes. In many Indian cities, the eclipse will be visible as the Moon rises. Major metropolitan areas including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Chennai will witness the concluding phases of the eclipse during the moonrise period.
Sutak Kaal Protocols and Traditional Beliefs
In accordance with traditional Indian customs, the 'Sutak Kaal' or the inauspicious period begins 9 hours prior to the start of a lunar eclipse. For today's event, the Sutak period became effective at 06:20 AM and will last until the eclipse ends at 06:46 PM. During this time, temple doors are traditionally closed, and public worship is suspended. Religious guidelines suggest avoiding the consumption of food and the initiation of any auspicious work during this window. However, exceptions are traditionally made for children, the elderly, and those with medical conditions. Many individuals engage in meditation and mental chanting during this period.
Geographic Reach and Global Visibility
While the eclipse is a major event for India, its visibility extends to several other parts of the globe. Apart from the Indian subcontinent, the eclipse will be visible across other Asian countries, Australia, Africa, parts of North and South America, and regions surrounding the Pacific Ocean. Within India, the visibility will be particularly clear in cities like Kolkata, Patna, and Guwahati, where the moonrise occurs earlier, while scientists note that the degree of visibility depends on the local weather conditions and the specific coordinates of the observer, but the overall event will be accessible to millions across the hemisphere.
Observational Guidelines and Rituals
Traditional practices during a lunar eclipse involve several precautionary measures. It's often advised to avoid using sharp objects like scissors or knives during the eclipse and Sutak period. Many households follow the practice of placing Tulsi (holy basil) leaves in stored water and food items to maintain their purity. Pregnant women are often advised to remain indoors as a matter of traditional caution. From a scientific perspective, unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse is safe to watch with the naked eye, and no special filters are required to observe the changing hues of the Moon.
Post-Eclipse Cleansing and Practices
Following the conclusion of the eclipse at 06:46 PM, several purification rituals are traditionally performed. It's customary to clean the house and sprinkle holy water (Gangajal) to signify the removal of negative energy. People usually take a ritual bath and change into fresh clothes before resuming daily activities or touching religious idols. Charitable acts, such as donating grains, clothes, or money to the needy, are highly encouraged after the eclipse, while fresh meals are prepared only after the eclipse has completely ended and the purification rituals are finished.