Lunar Eclipse 2026 Live Updates: According to the calendar, the first astronomical event of the year 2026 is going to happen today i.e. on March 3. Today Khandagras lunar eclipse will be visible in many parts of the country and the world. This eclipse, which is considered important from religious point of view, is going to occur in Leo and Purva Phalguni Nakshatra. The most important thing is that this eclipse will be visible in India, due to which its Sutak period is also considered effective. Sutak has started in India from 6.20 am today, in which some important rules have to be followed.
What time will the lunar eclipse occur today? (Chandra Grahan 2026 Timing)
According to Indian time, this first lunar eclipse of the year will begin in the afternoon.
- Beginning of eclipse: 03:20 pm
- End of eclipse: 06:46 pm
- total duration: about 3 hours 27 minutes
Time and importance of Sutak period
According to the scriptures, Sutak period starts 9 hours before the lunar eclipse. Sutak has started today at 6.20 am, which will end at 6.46 pm. Sutak period is considered an inauspicious time, in which the circulation of negative energy increases in nature. Therefore, the doors of the temples are closed during this period.
#WATCH Delhi: The doors of Shri Lakshmi Narayan Temple have been closed due to the beginning of Sutak period at 6:20 am today before the lunar eclipse. pic.twitter.com/X386DQ6AsH
— ANI_HindiNews (@AHindinews) March 3, 2026
What to do and what not to do during Sutak?
Touching of idols prohibited: It is prohibited to touch the idols of Gods and Goddesses during Sutak. You can do mental chanting.
Do not do auspicious work: No auspicious or new work should be started during this period.
Restrictions on eating and drinking: According to religious beliefs, cooking and eating food is prohibited in Sutak. However, exemption is given for the sick, elderly and children.
Other precautions: Cutting hair, nails or shaving during eclipse and Sutak is considered inauspicious.
In which parts of India and the world will the eclipse be visible?
In the world: Apart from India, it will be visible in other countries of Asia, Australia, Africa, North-South America and Pacific Ocean areas.
Major cities of India: In India, this eclipse can be seen in big cities like Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad and Patna.
What to do after the eclipse?
After the eclipse ends, sprinkle Ganga water in the entire house and doing charity after bathing is considered very fruitful. Prepare fresh food and use basil leaves.
Also read: 2026 Eclipses Astrology: Solar and lunar eclipse in the interval of 15 days, what does astrology say?
Disclaimer: The information given in this news is based on religious beliefs and general information. TV9 Bharatvarsha does not confirm this.