The total lunar eclipse will be fully visible across India with the following detailed timings:
Complete Eclipse Timeline (IST)
- Sutak Period begins: 12:57 PM IST (September 7)
- Penumbral phase starts: 8:58 PM IST
- Partial eclipse begins: 9:57 PM IST
- Total eclipse begins: 11:01 PM IST
- Maximum eclipse/Peak: 11:42 PM IST
- Total eclipse ends: 12:22 AM IST (September 8)
- Eclipse completely ends: 1:26 AM IST (September 8)
- Sutak period ends: 2:25 AM IST (September 8)
The total phase will last 82 minutes, making it an exceptionally long and spectacular blood moon event visible across all major Indian cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.
Do’s During the Eclipse Period
Spiritual Practices
- Engage in meditation, bhajans, and kirtans to harness the spiritual energy
- Chant Chandra Dev mantras to reduce lunar afflictions during the eclipse and sutak period
- Recite the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, especially beneficial for those suffering from illness or mental distress
- Chant Hanuman Chalisa and Bajrang Baan for protection from negative energies
- Read sacred texts and scriptures during the eclipse period
Purification Rituals
- Take a ritual bath before and after the eclipse to cleanse the body and soul
- Purify idols using Gangajal or plain water if Gangajal is unavailable
- Sprinkle Gangajal around the home after the eclipse to eliminate negativity
- Take a holy dip in the Ganga river, especially significant as this eclipse coincides with Pitru Paksha Purnima
Food Protection
- Add Kusha seeds or Tulsi Patra to food items to prevent them from absorbing negative energy
Special Guidelines for Pregnant Women
- Keep a coconut filled with water in their laps before the eclipse, later immersing it in flowing water to protect the unborn child
Don’ts During the Eclipse Period
Activities to Avoid
- Avoid all auspicious activities including weddings, housewarmings, and new ventures
- Do not sleep during the lunar eclipse
- Stay out of temples during the eclipse
- Avoid touching the Tulsi plant or visiting temples
Food and Consumption Restrictions
- Do not cook or eat food during the eclipse period
- Avoid drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes, and consuming eggs, meats, and seafoods on the eclipse day
- Avoid eating or drinking anything during the entire duration of the eclipse period[8]
- Many families finish their meals 2-3 hours before the eclipse begins
Physical Restrictions
- Abstain from physical intimacy during the eclipse and sutak phases
- Do not handle sharp objects like knives, scissors, or needles during this time
- Refrain from touching idols or sacred objects during the eclipse
This eclipse is particularly significant as it coincides with Pitru Paksha Purnima, making it an especially powerful spiritual event in Hindu tradition. The eclipse occurs in the Aquarius zodiac sign under Purva Bhadrapada Nakshatra, adding to its astrological importance.
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