Sun Mar 01 04:10:00 UTC 2026: Headline: First Lunar Eclipse of 2026 to Coincide with Holika Dahan in India

The Story:
The first Chandra Grahan (lunar eclipse) of 2026 is set to occur on March 3rd, coinciding with the Hindu festival of Holika Dahan. This partial lunar eclipse will be visible in India, making it a significant event from a religious and astrological perspective. The eclipse will take place in the Singh Rashi (Leo zodiac sign) and Purva Phalguni Nakshatra. A ‘Sutak Kaal’ (inauspicious period) will be observed for nine hours before the eclipse, during which auspicious activities are prohibited.

Key Points:

  • The lunar eclipse will occur on March 3, 2026.
  • It is a partial lunar eclipse (खण्डग्रास चंद्र ग्रहण).
  • The eclipse will begin at 3:20 PM and end at 6:46 PM Indian Standard Time.
  • The total duration of the eclipse will be 3 hours and 27 minutes.
  • The ‘Sutak Kaal’ will begin at 6:20 AM on March 3rd.
  • The eclipse will be visible in most parts of India, excluding some far western regions.
  • It will also be visible in Eastern Asia, Australia, the Pacific Ocean, and America.
  • During the Sutak period, temples will be closed, and auspicious activities are prohibited.

Key Takeaways:

  • The coincidence of the lunar eclipse with Holika Dahan adds religious significance to the event in India.
  • The visibility of the eclipse in India increases its importance for astrological and cultural practices.
  • The observance of ‘Sutak Kaal’ reflects traditional beliefs and practices associated with lunar eclipses.
  • Lunar eclipses are significant astronomical events with perceived effects on human emotions and the environment.

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