Chandra Grahan 2026: Sutak Start and End Timings, Do’s and Don’ts, Lunar Eclipse Effects on All Zodiac Signs

The first lunar eclipse of 2026, also known as Chandra Grahan, will take place on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. The celestial event is drawing special attention this year as it coincides with the festival of Holi, a rare alignment believed to be occurring after nearly a century.

Chandra Grahan 2026 Start and End Timing

As per the Hindu calendar and Drik Panchang, the eclipse will begin at 03:20 pm and conclude at 06:47 pm (IST). However, different phases of the eclipse will unfold through the afternoon and evening.

Chandra Grahan 2026 Moonrise Time and Eclipse Duration

According to Drik Panchang, the moonrise on March 3, 2026, will occur at 06:26 pm. The local eclipse duration is expected to be 20 minutes and 31 seconds.

Here are the key timings:

• First Contact with Penumbra – 02:16 pm
• First Contact with Umbra – 03:21 pm
• Total Phase Begins – 04:35 pm
• Maximum Eclipse – 05:04 pm
• Total Phase Ends – 05:33 pm
• Last Contact with Umbra – 06:46 pm
• Last Contact with Penumbra – 07:52 pm

The total phase duration will last 57 minutes and 27 seconds. The magnitude of the lunar eclipse is 1.14, while the penumbral magnitude stands at 2.18. Skywatchers across India may witness a striking reddish hue, often referred to as a ‘Blood Moon’, after moonrise.

ALSO READ- Holi Date 2026: March 3 Or March 4? Know The History, Significance, And Auspicious Time of The Festival of Colours

Chandra Grahan 2026 Sutak Start and End Timings

As per the Drik Panchang, the Sutak period will begin at 09:39 am on March 3, 2026, and end at 06:46 pm, coinciding with the conclusion of the umbral phase.

In Hindu tradition, Sutak is considered an inauspicious period during which certain activities are avoided, and spiritual practices are encouraged.

Chandra Grahan 2026 Do’s

Many households observe traditional practices during the eclipse:

• Chant mantras or meditate to maintain mental calm and spiritual focus.
• Read sacred texts such as the Bhagavad Gita or Ramcharitmanas.
• Add tulsi leaves or kusha grass to stored food.
• Take a bath before and after the eclipse as a symbol of purification.
• Cover idols and sprinkle Gangajal after the eclipse.
• Donate food, clothes or money once the eclipse ends.

Chandra Grahan 2026 Don’ts

Traditional beliefs suggest avoiding:

• Eating during the Sutak period.
• Beginning new ventures or auspicious ceremonies.
• Sleeping during the eclipse hours.
• Using sharp objects unnecessarily.
• Touching idols or Tulsi plants.

These practices largely depend on personal faith and family customs.

Chadra Grahan 2026 Effects on Rashi

As per Drik Panchang:

• Aries (Mesha): Minor technical hurdles in business; stomach-related discomfort possible.
• Taurus (Vrishabha): Concern regarding mother’s health; business prospects look stable.
• Gemini (Mithuna): Pending work may resume; chances of career advancement.
• Cancer (Karka): Financial delays; workplace disputes possible.
• Leo (Simha): Eclipse falls in your sign; avoid impulsive decisions.
• Virgo (Kanya): Travel likely; mental unrest due to slow progress.
• Libra (Tula): Promotion prospects; resolve disputes carefully.
• Scorpio (Vrishchika): Workplace challenges are manageable.
• Sagittarius (Dhanu): Spiritual inclination increases; travel obstacles are possible.
• Capricorn (Makara): Health caution advised; avoid risky activities.
• Aquarius (Kumbha): New career opportunities; minor marital differences.
• Pisces (Meena): Irritability may rise; competitive exam aspirants may succeed.

ALSO READ- When Is Lunar Eclipse 2026? Chandra Grahan Date, Sutak Kaal And City-Wise Timings In India

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