Chandra Grahan 2026 on Holi: Date, India Timings, Sutak Period, Visibility & Traditional Do’s and Don’ts

Written by Intern Swara Bodke || Team Allycaral

A rare and spectacular celestial event — a total lunar eclipse, popularly known as Chandra Grahan — will take place on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Interestingly, the eclipse coincides with the vibrant Hindu festival of Holi, making it a unique blend of science and tradition.
A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow on the Moon. When the full Moon moves into Earth’s deep shadow, it appears reddish due to sunlight bending through Earth’s atmosphere. This phenomenon is popularly called a “Blood Moon.”
Chandra Grahan 2026: Date and Time in India
Chandra Grahan 2026 will be observed on March 3, 2026.
As per Indian Standard Time (IST):
The eclipse will begin at 3:20 PM IST.
It will end around 6:46 PM IST.
The total duration will be approximately 3 hours and 27 minutes.
The penumbral phase is expected to begin around 4:58 PM IST.
Totality — when the Moon is completely inside Earth’s shadow — will last for about 58 minutes and is expected to end around 5:32 PM IST.
The maximum eclipse is likely to occur between 5:10 PM and 5:25 PM IST, depending on the city.
Visibility in Different States
In India, the Moon rises later in the evening. As a result, only the final phase of the eclipse will be visible in many parts of the country.
The best viewing window will be between 6:20 PM and 6:40 PM IST, around moonrise.
Major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai are expected to witness the eclipse between 6:20 PM and 6:30 PM IST.

People in northeastern states like Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, and West Bengal may experience better visibility, as the Moon rises earlier in these regions. In some places, the Moon may rise already appearing red.
Sutak Timings
As per traditional Hindu beliefs, the Sutak period begins several hours before the eclipse.
For this Chandra Grahan, Sutak kaal is expected to begin around 6:20 AM to 6:23 AM IST on March 3 and will end with the conclusion of the eclipse in the evening.
During the Sutak period, many people avoid eating, cooking, and performing auspicious activities.
Traditional Do’s During Chandra Grahan
According to religious customs and beliefs:
Chant mantras such as the Gayatri Mantra or Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra.
Read spiritual texts like the Bhagavad Gita.
Meditate, as it is believed to provide stronger spiritual benefits during grahan.
Take a bath before and after the eclipse.
Donate food, clothes, or money after the grahan, as it is considered auspicious.
Place Tulsi leaves in cooked food before the eclipse (a traditional belief for protection).
Traditional Don’ts During Chandra Grahan
As per cultural traditions:
Avoid eating during the eclipse (exceptions are often made for elderly, children, pregnant women, and the sick).
Avoid sleeping during grahan.
Avoid cooking or cutting vegetables during the eclipse period.
Pregnant women are traditionally advised not to step outside or use sharp objects.
Avoid starting new work or making major decisions during grahan.
It is important to note that these practices are based on religious and cultural beliefs, not scientific evidence.
How to Watch Chandra Grahan 2026 in India
Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse is completely safe to watch with the naked eye.
For the best experience:
Step outside and find a clear view of the eastern horizon.
Try to avoid bright city lights.
Rooftops, beaches, and hilltops are ideal viewing spots.
Binoculars or a telescope can enhance the view, but they are not necessary.
Skywatchers in ideal regions may witness up to 58 minutes of totality, where the Moon will appear deep red.
Chandra Grahan 2026 promises to be a rare astronomical spectacle coinciding with Holi, offering both scientific fascination and deep-rooted cultural significance for millions across India.