Lunar Eclipse 2026: When Will Chandra Grahan Start and End Today, March 3? Time and India Visibility Details
A total lunar eclipse (Chandra Grahan) known as a "Blood Moon", will occur today, March 3 coinciding with Holi. In India, it begins at 3:20 PM and ends at 6:47 PM IST. While the peak happens below the horizon, viewers can see the final phase at moonrise (around 6:25 PM). The Sutak Kaal began at 6:23 AM and will conclude with the eclipse.
Mumbai, March 3: Skywatchers across India are set to witness a rare celestial event today, March 3, as a total lunar eclipse (Chandra Grahan) - often called a "Blood Moon" - graces the evening sky. Coinciding with the Holi festival week, this eclipse will see the Moon take on a striking reddish-copper hue as it passes through the Earth’s shadow. While the astronomical event begins in the afternoon, most of India will witness the eclipse during its concluding stages as the Moon rises above the eastern horizon. Scroll below to know Chandra Grahan start and end time and its timings and India visibility.
Total Lunar Eclipse (Chandra Grahan) Timings for India
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Ministry of Earth Sciences, the total duration of the eclipse (penumbral to end) will be over five hours. Holi Grahan 2026: Did You Know It is a Rare Hat-trick of Holi and Lunar Eclipse This Year?
However, the period of maximum interest occurs in the late afternoon and early evening:
- Penumbral Phase Begins: 2:14 PM IST (Not visible in India as the Moon is below the horizon)
- Partial Eclipse Begins: 3:20 PM IST
- Totality (Blood Moon) Starts: 4:34 PM IST
- Totality Ends: 5:32 PM IST
- Final Phase Ends (Moksha): 6:47 PM IST
When and Where to Watch Chandra Grahan in India
Because the Moon rises later in India, the initial phases - including the peak of totality - will not be visible in most regions. Instead, Indians will witness a "Moonrise Eclipse," where the Moon rises already partially or fully obscured.
- Northeastern States: Cities like Dibrugarh, Itanagar, and Guwahati will have the best view, witnessing the eclipse for over an hour.
- Metropolitan Cities: Residents in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai will have a shorter viewing window, typically between 6:20 PM and 6:47 PM IST, as the Moon exits the Earth's shadow shortly after rising.
- Visibility Window: Most parts of the country will see the eclipse for approximately 20 to 30 minutes before it officially concludes.
Sutak Kaal and Traditional Observances
In accordance with Hindu traditions, the "Sutak" period - a time of religious abstinence - began early this morning at 6:23 AM IST. During this period, many temples across the country remain closed, and individuals often refrain from starting new ventures or preparing fresh meals. The timing of the eclipse has also impacted Holi celebrations. Vedic scholars have advised performing Holika Dahan rituals either early this morning or after the eclipse concludes at 6:47 PM this evening to avoid the inauspicious window. Holi 2026 Date, Shubh Muhurat: When Is Holika Dahan or Chhoti Holi? When Is Rangwali Holi?
Scientific Background: Why a 'Blood Moon'?
A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth aligns perfectly between the Sun and the Moon. While the Earth blocks direct sunlight, the atmosphere filters and refracts shorter blue wavelengths of light, allowing longer red wavelengths to pass through and illuminate the lunar surface. The intensity of the red color can vary depending on atmospheric conditions, such as dust and clouds, potentially giving the Moon a deep crimson or brownish-red appearance.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 03, 2026 08:18 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).