Chandra Grahan 2026 on Holika Dahan:A rare celestial event will coincide with Holika Dahan in 2026. According to astronomical data released by NASA and eclipse charts referenced by Indian Space Research Organisation, a Lunar Eclipse (Chandra Grahan) will occur on March 3, 2026 (Tuesday), the same evening as Holika Dahan.
Lunar Eclipse 2026 Timings (IST)
- Penumbral Eclipse Begins: 3:21 PM IST
- Partial Eclipse Begins: 4:33 PM IST
- Maximum Eclipse: 6:18 PM IST
- Partial Eclipse Ends: 8:02 PM IST
- Penumbral Eclipse Ends: 9:14 PM IST
The Moon will rise in India around sunset. This means that most of the country will see the later stages of the eclipse. The later stages of the eclipse will be visible to most parts of the country only if weather conditions allow it.
Chandra Grahan 2026 on Holika Dahan: Sutak Time In India
In Hindu tradition, Sutak refers to the inauspicious period that begins before an eclipse. For a lunar eclipse, Sutak traditionally starts approximately 9 hours before the eclipse begins.
Astrologically, it is classified as a khanda gras (partial) lunar eclipse. The event takes place in Singh Rashi (Leo) under Purva Phalguni Nakshatra, a detail that has drawn particular interest among astrology followers.
- Sutak Begins: Around 6:21 AM IST on March 3, 2026
- Sutak Ends: After 9:14 PM IST when the eclipse concludes
The religious authorities explain that Sutak needs to be practiced in areas which experience an eclipse.
Lunar Eclipse September 7–8 2025: India Timings, Sutak Kaal, and Visibility Details
Will Holika Dahan Rituals Be Impacted?
The Holika Dahan ceremony will begin at sunset on March 3 2026. The temple staff and Panchang specialists will advise ritual times according to the specific muhurat schedule because the eclipse will take place during the evening period.
Scholars who study religion explain that people should follow eclipse-related prohibitions only during times when they can see the eclipse from their location. The temple authorities together with the Panchang experts will provide their final directives before the scheduled time.
Chandra Grahan 2026 on Holika Dahan: Visibility In India
Most northern, central and western parts of India are expected to witness at least the partial phase of the eclipse. Lunar eclipses are safe to watch with the naked eye.
This rare alignment of Chandra Grahan and Holika Dahan is expected to draw both spiritual attention and scientific interest across the country.
