Total Lunar Eclipse March 2026: How to Watch the Holi Blood Moon in India

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A rare total lunar eclipse will grace the evening skies across India on 3 March 2026, coinciding with the vibrant festival of Holi. This celestial event, often called a ‘Blood Moon’ owing to its deep reddish hue, will be visible as a partial eclipse for most of the country, while parts of Northeast India will witness the stunning totality phase. As the Earth aligns between the sun and the moon, skywatchers should prepare for a brief but spectacular show during moonrise.

Witnessing the 'Blood Moon' at Moonrise


The first total lunar eclipse of 2026 is happening soon. It will be a special treat for people in India. The moon will already be in the Earth's shadow when it rises in the evening. This event starts in its first phase at 2:14 PM IST. However, you cannot see it with your eyes until the moon rises. In cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, the moon rises around 6:20 PM IST. It will look like a large ‘bite’ has been taken out of it. The moon will slowly move out of the shadow as the night goes on.

The view is even better in the Northeast. As noted by The Times of India, "several cities in the Northeast are expected to experience full totality," with cities like Dibrugarh, Itanagar, and Guwahati seeing a 100% obscured, coppery-red moon for a few minutes right at dusk. The moon will be very low in the sky. You should find a high spot to watch.

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How Will the Holi Lunar Eclipse 2026 Affect Rituals and Daily Life?


This eclipse happens on the same day as Holi. This creates a big change for many people in India. Traditional rules usually suggest a quiet time during an eclipse. This means many people will change how they celebrate.

The Sutak Kaal is a special time before an eclipse. It will begin at 6:20 AM IST on 3 March. India TV News explains that 'during Sutak, temple doors are traditionally closed... the idea is to pause outward activity." This will change the day for many:

  • Temple Times: Most big temples will close in the morning. They will open again for cleaning after 7:53 PM.
  • Holi Fun: People usually play with colors during the day. The big bonfires on 2nd March will happen normally. However, on 3rd March, many families will eat early before the Sutak starts. Others will wait until the eclipse ends at night.
  • Business Impact: Shops selling Holi sweets and gifts may see people buying things earlier than usual. This event will likely make more students interested in science and stars over the next six months.
     
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The March 2026 lunar eclipse is a special moment as it brings science and culture together. Many people will take photos of the red moon. In the future, better technology will help us enjoy these sky shows even more.