Wed Sep 18 07:13:13 UTC 2024: ## Lunar Eclipse on September 18th: No Impact on India, but Cultural Beliefs Still Hold Strong
The upcoming lunar eclipse, known as Chandra Grahan, will take place on September 18th, 2024, coinciding with Bhadrapada Purnima. While this partial eclipse will be visible in various parts of the world, it will not be observable in India.
The eclipse will begin at 6:11 AM IST and last for approximately 4 hours and 6 minutes, with key phases including penumbral and partial eclipse periods.
Despite the lack of visibility in India, traditional beliefs associated with lunar eclipses remain prevalent. Many believe that eating during Chandra Grahan is forbidden, as the alignment of the Earth, Sun, and Moon is thought to affect the energy balance on Earth, particularly influencing cooked food.
The concerns primarily center around ultraviolet (UV) rays emitted during the eclipse, which are believed to interact with cooked food, potentially making it harmful. While scientific research has not substantiated these claims, the practice of abstaining from eating during eclipses continues to be widely observed in Indian households.
This practice, along with other rituals like placing a Tulsi leaf on food, is seen as a protective measure against contamination and harmful radiation. While these cultural beliefs may not hold scientific backing, they remain deeply ingrained in many cultures, serving as a reminder of the enduring influence of traditional wisdom.
First Piper 