On Tuesday, 3 March 2026, skywatchers and spiritual observers across India and many parts of the world will witness one of the year’s most fascinating astronomical events — a Chandra Grahan (lunar eclipse). Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are easily visible with the naked eye, and this particular eclipse offers both scientific intrigue and cultural significance.
From precise eclipse timings and visibility to sutak periods, religious customs, and viewing tips — here’s your complete guide to the Chandra Grahan of 3rd March 2026.
What Is a Chandra Grahan (Lunar Eclipse)?
A Chandra Grahan — or lunar eclipse — happens when the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow on the lunar surface. This alignment causes the Moon to darken, and during a total eclipse, it can take on deep red or copper hues — a phenomenon often called a “Blood Moon.”
Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are safe to view with the naked eye because they don’t involve looking at the Sun directly.
Date & General Overview
- Date: Tuesday, 3 March 2026
- Type: Total Lunar Eclipse (visible in parts of India)
- Global Visibility: Parts of Asia, Australia, Pacific, Americas — with regions farther east seeing the eclipse earlier.
Although this lunar eclipse is total in astronomical terms, from some parts of India only the later stages (after moonrise) will be visible.
Chandra Grahan Time in India (IST)
Here’s how the eclipse unfolds on 3rd March 2026 according to Indian Standard Time (IST):
| Phase of Eclipse | Time (IST) |
|---|---|
| Eclipse begins (penumbral phase) | 2:14 PM |
| Partial Eclipse begins | 3:20 PM |
| Total Eclipse begins | 4:34 PM |
| Maximum Eclipse | 5:04 PM |
| Total Eclipse ends | 5:33 PM |
| Partial Eclipse ends | 6:47 PM |
| Eclipse ends | 7:53 PM |
In many northern and central Indian cities (e.g., Delhi, Pune, Mumbai), the moon will rise already in eclipse, meaning that only the later stages will be visible after moonrise.
Also Read: Can We Do Pooja During Sutak?
Is Chandra Grahan Visible in India on 3 March 2026?
Yes, Chandra Grahan is visible in India, but not fully from all regions.
✔️ Visibility in India
- Northern India: Partially visible after moonrise
- Central India: Visible in evening hours
- Eastern India: Better visibility compared to western regions
- Southern India: Moonrise occurs earlier, so more phases may be seen
👉 If the Moon rises after the eclipse has started, only the remaining part will be visible.
🌍 Where It Will Be Visible
✔️ Visible in India — especially in the evening after moonrise.
✔️ Best visibility will be across East Asia, Australia, Pacific regions, and the Americas.
✔️ Not fully visible in parts of western Europe and Africa due to moonset timing.
🕊️ Sutak Kaal & Traditional Practices
In Hindu cultural observance, a Sutak period is the inauspicious time before and during an eclipse, observed as a period of quiet and spiritual preparation. For this eclipse:
- Sutak begins: ~09:39 AM IST
- Sutak ends: With the end of the eclipse (~06:46 PM IST)
For children, elderly people, and the unwell, a shorter sutak period may be observed.
Many families observe fasting, refrain from cooking, and engage in prayer or mantra chanting during this period.
🧘 Religious & Cultural Significance
In Hindu tradition, lunar eclipses are times of heightened spiritual influence. Many people:
- Take ritual baths before and after the eclipse
- Chant mantras (e.g., Ashtakshara or Mrityunjaya mantras)
- Avoid cooking or eating during sutak and eclipse times
- Perform charity or meditation
Temple routines in many regions may also be adjusted, including temporary closures and purification ceremonies afterward.
🔭 Astronomical Explanation in Simple Terms
Why does a lunar eclipse happen?
- The Earth blocks direct sunlight from reaching the Moon.
- Light filtered through Earth’s atmosphere bends and gives the eclipsed Moon its reddish tint — hence the name Blood Moon.
- Lunar eclipses only occur during Full Moon phases.
Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are widely visible anywhere on Earth where the Moon is above the horizon.
🌙 Best Ways to Watch the Eclipse
Watching a lunar eclipse requires no special eye protection — unlike solar eclipses.
Tips for viewing:
✔️ Find a location with a clear view of the eastern sky around moonrise.
✔️ Use binoculars or a small telescope for more detail.
✔️ Take pictures with a tripod if capturing long exposures.
✔️ Check local weather — clouds can limit visibility.
Also Read: When Is the Full Moon in Fabruary 2026?
🌟 Conclusion
The 3rd March 2026 Chandra Grahan is a rare and beautiful celestial event that blends astronomical wonder with cultural reverence. Whether you are an astronomy enthusiast keen to witness a total lunar eclipse or someone observing traditional practices, this event offers both scientific delight and spiritual resonance.
Make a note in your calendar, check the local moonrise time for your city, and enjoy this enchanting show in the sky!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will the entire eclipse be visible in India?
No — because the moon rises already in eclipse in many Indian cities, only later phases will be seen.
Can I watch it without any equipment?
Yes — lunar eclipses are safe to view with the naked eye.
Do we need to observe Sutak?
Traditional practice suggests observing sutak from the prescribed start time until the eclipse ends.