Lunar Eclipse 2026: When is first lunar eclipse of 2026? What is its significance? Note the Sutak Kaal
Lunar Eclipse 2026: In Sanatan Dharma, the period of an eclipse is not considered auspicious, whether it is a solar eclipse or a lunar eclipse. The first lunar eclipse of this year is going to occur on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. This will be a total lunar eclipse, which will be visible as a 'Blood Moon' in many parts of the world.
This eclipse will be visible in India. Significantly, this first lunar eclipse of the year is occurring on the day of Phalguna Purnima, which is also the day of Holika Dahan, thus increasing its importance.
The first lunar eclipse of 2026 will occur on the day of Holika Dahan, also known as Chhoti Holi. This eclipse will be visible in India, therefore, the Sutak period (inauspicious period) will also be considered valid.
According to Indian Standard Time, this lunar eclipse will occur on March 3, 2026. This day will be the full moon day of the Phalguna month.
Eclipse start and end time
Eclipse start time is 3:20 PM and end time is 6:47 PM. The duration of the eclipse is about 3 hours 27 minutes.
This lunar eclipse will occur in Purva Phalguni Nakshatra and Leo zodiac sign.
Sutak sart and end time
The Sutak period of the lunar eclipse will begin on March 3rd at 6:20 AM. The Sutak period will last until 6:46 PM.
Sutak Period for the Elderly and Children
For children and the elderly, the Sutak period will be considered from 3:28 PM to 6:46 PM.
What is the Sutak Period?
According to Hindu beliefs, the time before a solar or lunar eclipse is called the Sutak period. This time is considered inauspicious. It is said that cooking, eating, performing puja (worship), and undertaking auspicious activities are prohibited during this time.
The doors of temples also remain closed during the Sutak period. However, children, the elderly, and sick people are exempted from the rules of Sutak.
This lunar eclipse, occurring on the full moon day of the Phalguna month, will be visible in the northeastern region of Bengal, as well as in the northeastern states of Mizoram, Nagaland, Manipur, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh.