The first total lunar eclipse of the year is going to occur on March 3, 2026. Being visible in India, its religious and astrological importance is quite high. According to the Mahants of Delhi’s famous ancient Hanuman Temple (Connaught Place), this eclipse is not only an astronomical event, but its Sutak period will affect the temples and life of people across the country.

Mahant Sumit Sharma told that the total time of the eclipse will be from 3:20 pm to 6:47 pm. However, Delhiites will see this amazing sight for a very short time. In Delhi, the eclipse will be visible only from 6:20 to 6:26 pm (total 6 minutes).

Sutak period: Restrictions from 6:20 am

The Sutak period of lunar eclipse starts 9 hours before.

• Sutak starts: 6:20 am.
• Temple arrangements: As soon as the Sutak is installed, the offering of flower garlands and Prasad will stop.
• Closing of doors: The doors of the temple will be completely closed at 9:20 am, which will open only after Aarti and purification after the eclipse ends.

Pregnant women and health effects

Astrologers and pundits have warned that this eclipse can be challenging in terms of health:

• Pregnant women: Avoid leaving the house during the eclipse period, so that the baby is not adversely affected.
• Diseases: Patients suffering from cold, cough, pneumonia and blood pressure have been advised to be cautious.
• Zodiac signs: It can have the greatest impact on people with Cancer zodiac (due to Moon being the lord) and Leo zodiac.

What to do and what not to do?

• Chant: Mentally chant ‘Om Namah Shivay’ or Ishta Dev during the eclipse.
• Donation: Doing charity is considered fruitful only after the eclipse ends.
• Purification: After the eclipse is over, take bath, bathe the idols and change clothes.
• Special Note: Swayambhu idols (like the main idol of the ancient Hanuman temple) are not blamed for the eclipse, but the doors are kept closed as per tradition.

Other eclipses of 2026

According to pundits, a total of three eclipses will occur in 2026, out of which only this total lunar eclipse will be visible in India. The remaining two eclipses will be effective in foreign countries and will be invisible in India.