“When the Moon Fades, Faith Takes the Lead”
India will witness the first Chandra Grahan (Lunar Eclipse) of 2026 on March 3, coinciding with Falgun Purnima. The eclipse triggers Sutak Kaal from early morning, affecting religious activities and shifting Holi celebrations in Bihar, especially in the Patna region.
Table of Contents
- Eclipse & Sutak Timings
- Religious Restrictions During Sutak
- Impact on Holi in Bihar
- Visibility Across India & World
- What To Do After the Eclipse
Eclipse & Sutak Timings (IST)
The partial lunar eclipse on March 3, 2026, will follow this schedule:
| Event | Time (IST) |
|---|---|
| Eclipse Begins | 3:20 PM |
| Peak Time | 5:04 PM |
| Eclipse Ends | 6:46 – 6:48 PM |
| Sutak Begins | 6:20 – 6:23 AM |
Total Duration: Approximately 3 hours 27 minutes.
Sutak begins 9 hours before the eclipse and ends with the conclusion of the Grahan.
Religious Restrictions During Sutak
During Sutak Kaal, several religious and daily activities are restricted:
- No puja, hawan, yagna, or new manglik works.
- Temples remain closed.
- Cooking and eating are avoided after the last meal before Sutak begins.
- Physical worship of idols is prohibited.
- Pregnant women, children, and elderly are advised extra precautions.
Allowed: Mental chanting, meditation, and mantra jap.
Impact on Holi in Bihar
Because the eclipse falls on Falgun Purnima, Holi celebrations in Bihar — including Patna, Samastipur, and Banka — are shifted.
- March 2 Night: Holika Dahan completed before Bhadra period.
- March 3: No color play due to Sutak and eclipse.
- March 4: Holi celebrations as per local Panchang guidance.
Local religious authorities have confirmed March 4 as the appropriate date to maintain shastra compliance.
Visibility Across India & Worldwide
The eclipse will be visible mainly in:
- Eastern India (Patna, Bihar region)
- Northeast India
- Andaman & Nicobar Islands
- East Asia
- Australia
- Pacific regions
- Americas
Some regions may witness partial visibility after moonrise.
What To Do After the Eclipse
Post-eclipse rituals traditionally include:
- Taking a holy bath
- Cleaning the home
- Donating food or charity
- Resuming temple worship
These practices symbolize purification and spiritual renewal.
Final Takeaway
The March 3, 2026 Chandra Grahan brings not just a celestial event but a spiritual pause across India. With Sutak starting early morning, Bihar shifts Holi to March 4 to honor tradition and religious guidelines.
Stay informed. Celebrate responsibly. Follow tradition with awareness.