As the Lunar Eclipse – also known as the Chandra Grahan – takes place, people all over the world look up to witness this rare spectacle. In some regions, the event takes place against the background of the night sky. This phenomenon occurs when the Earth is positioned directly between the Sun and the Moon, causing its shadow to fall across the lunar surface, creating one of the most dramatic views visible from our planet.
For those unable to watch due to cloudy skies or geographic restrictions, a live stream of the celestial event is provided, allowing viewers to watch the “Blood Moon” in real time.
Unlike a solar eclipse, this event poses no risk to the eyes and can be observed safely without special equipment. As the eclipse progresses, the Moon slowly darkens and may appear reddish or coppery at its peak – a phase commonly referred to as a “Blood Moon”. Data and observations released by NASA explain that this hue is created when sunlight passes through the Earth’s atmosphere, bends and filters onto the surface of the Moon.
A full wormhole moon glows completely orange during a lunar eclipse in the early morning hours of Tuesday, March 3, 2026, near Moscow, Idaho. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)(AP)
Visibility of the eclipse varies in different areas depending on local time zones and weather conditions.
Chandra Grahan 2026 Live Update: Lunar Eclipse in India: What are the Rituals and Cleansing Practices After the Eclipse?
After the lunar eclipse ends, many devotees follow customary practices that are believed to restore harmony and bring positive energy to those around them.
Purification Bath: A bath is considered a spiritually cleansing bath after an eclipse as it is believed to wash away the negative effects associated with the Sutak Kaal.
Home Cleansing: Sprinkling Ganga jal or other holy water throughout the home and cleaning the living space is considered a way to refresh the environment and attract renewed positivity.
Prayers and Chanting: Devotees often recite mantras or perform a short puja to regain spiritual balance and inner peace.
Food related observations: People traditionally avoid eating or preparing food during the eclipse and resume cooking and eating only after it ends.
Meditation and Introspection: Some individuals devote this period to quiet reflection, chanting, or journaling to harmonize mind and body with the cosmic shift.
Kolkata: A partial lunar eclipse is seen in the night sky over Kolkata, Tuesday, March 3, 2026. (PTI Photo/Swapan Mahapatra) (PTI03_03_2026_000321B)(PTI)
Collectively, these ceremonies are believed to enliven both the home and the individual, combining cultural tradition with conscious spiritual practice following Chandra Grahan.
Chandra Grahan 2026 Live Updates: What to do after the lunar eclipse is over?
Once the lunar eclipse is over, many people follow ancient rituals believed to restore spiritual harmony at home. A common practice involves sprinkling Ganga jal in different parts of the house as a symbolic act of purification. Devotees then usually take a bath, wear new clothes and light a diya in their home temple.
Offering prayers and giving gifts is also considered auspicious after grahan. According to traditional beliefs, charitable deeds performed after an eclipse help to invoke positive energy and gain spiritual merit.
Meanwhile, social media platforms are flooded with photos and reactions from viewers around the world, turning the event into a shared global experience for astronomy enthusiasts.
Visibility conditions in India
In India, the lunar eclipse will largely coincide with moonrise, meaning that only the final stages of the celestial event will be visible in most parts of the country. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said viewers across much of India will be able to witness the final phase of the eclipse as the moon appears on the horizon at sunset.
Eastern regions are expected to get better visibility. As the Moon rises earlier in the eastern parts of the country, residents of Northeast India and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are likely to witness more impressive visuals, including the final moments of the “Blood Moon” totality.
Crucial times for India
Total eclipse phase: 4:34 PM – 5:33 PM (Visible only in parts of North East India)
Window of maximum visibility: 18:33 – 18:40 (ideal viewing time for most cities)
Partial phase ends: 18:47 or 18:48
Unlike a solar eclipse, this event can be safely observed without protective glasses. Experts recommend choosing a location with a clear and unobstructed view of the eastern horizon for the best experience. Binoculars or small binoculars can improve visibility even further.
Timing of Moonrise from the point of view of the city
Delhi and Mumbai: Moonrise is expected between 6:22 PM and 6:42 PM. Viewers in these cities will likely only see the final 5 to 25 minutes of the sub-phase.
Bengaluru and Chennai: The moon will rise around 6:20 PM and offer about 15 to 20 minutes of visibility.
