Chandra Grahan 2026: Sutak Period Begins Ahead of Lunar Eclipse

Sutak Period Starts Today: The Sutak period for the first lunar eclipse of 2026 began today, march 3, at 6:20 am, which is exactly 9 hours before the eclipse. This period is considered inauspicious according to Hindu beliefs.

Temple Doors Closed in Delhi: With the start of the Sutak, temples in Delhi, including Shri Laxmi Narayan temple and Kalkaji temple, closed their doors. Devotees were seen waiting outside the temples.

Auspicious Activities Restricted: During Sutak, people avoid performing auspicious activities. Cooking and eating are generally avoided, and religious rituals are postponed until after the period ends.

Lunar Eclipse Timing: The Chandra Grahan (lunar eclipse) will occur today, march 3, 2026, beginning at 3:20 pm and ending at 6:47 pm, lasting a total of 3 hours and 27 minutes. This eclipse is visible across India.

Astronomical Significance: A lunar eclipse occurs when the Sun, Earth, and moon data-align, causing the Earth to block sunlight from reaching the Moon. The eclipse will be clearly visible in major cities like Delhi-NCR, Kolkata, Chennai, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Uttar Pradesh.

Religious and Astrological Importance: The Sutak period is highly significant in astrology and is observed before every lunar eclipse. 

Activities considered inauspicious should not be undertaken during this time.

Darshan After Sutak: Devotees must wait until the Sutak period ends to enter temples and perform rituals. Temple doors will reopen once the inauspicious period concludes.

First Lunar Eclipse of 2026: This eclipse falls on the full moon day of Phalgun, adding religious and cultural significance to the event for Hindu devotees across India.

Guidelines for Devotees: During Sutak, people are advised to avoid eating, cooking, and performing ceremonies. They should remain indoors or focus on prayers until the eclipse and Sutak period conclude.

Summary: The Chandra Grahan on march 3, 2026, marks the first lunar eclipse of the year. The Sutak period began at 6:20 am in Delhi, with temples closed for devotees. After the period ends, darshan and rituals can resume safely.

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