The first lunar eclipse of 2026 will occur on March 3, on the auspicious occasion of Phalgun Purnima and Holika Dahan. On this day, devotees across India will follow special religious traditions.
Below are the exact timing of the eclipse, details of Sutak period, visibility across India and important Do’s and Don’ts to follow:-
Importance of lunar eclipse in Hindu religion
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According to Drik Panchang, both solar and lunar eclipses are of great importance. Performing auspicious works and religious rituals are avoided during the eclipse. Since the first lunar eclipse of 2026 falls on a full moon day, it is considered spiritually significant. Notably, Holika Dahan will also be celebrated on the same day.
Types of lunar eclipse in 2026
The first lunar eclipse of the year will be a partial lunar eclipse. It will be visible in many parts of India i.e. Sutak period will be applicable.
lunar eclipse 2026 date and time
According to Drik Panchang,
date: 3 March 2026
Eclipse start time: 2:16 pm
Eclipse end time: 7:52 pm
Since the eclipse will be visible in India, there will also be Sutak period.
time of sutak period
According to Drik Panchang, the Sutak period of lunar eclipse starts 9 hours before the eclipse.
Sutak begins: March 3 at 9:40 am
Sutak ends: March 3 at 6:46 pm
Visibility of lunar eclipse in India
According to Drik Panchang, the effect of lunar eclipse will be visible in India from 3:21 pm to 7:52 pm.
Places where eclipse will be visible
This is clearly visible in: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Aizawl and Guwahati
Partial visibility in: Jaipur, Bengaluru, Chennai, Lucknow, Delhi and Mumbai
What to do and what not to do during Sutak period of lunar eclipse
According to Drik Panchang,
Things to avoid during Sutak
One should avoid eating as soon as the Sutak period begins
Do not perform religious rituals or auspicious work
Pregnant women should avoid going out
Avoid unnecessary physical activities
Things to do during Sutak
engage in meditation, quiet prayer or chanting mantras
maintain calm and positive thoughts
Cover cooked food with basil leaves to reduce negative effects
What to do after lunar eclipse?
Once the eclipse is over:
take a purifying bath
Resume Daily Activities
prepare fresh food
Temples reopen after purification rituals
The lunar eclipse of March 3, 2026, holds both astronomical and spiritual significance, especially because it coincides with Phalgun Purnima and Holika Dahan. By being aware of the timing, visibility and sutak guidelines of the eclipse, devotees can observe the day with clarity and devotion. Following the traditional do’s and don’ts helps maintain spiritual balance and allows people to resume their normal routine with peace and positivity after the eclipse ends.
(This article is for your general information only. Zee News does not confirm its accuracy or reliability.)