First Lunar eclipse of 2026 will occur on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 and this total lunar eclipse falls on the Holi (Dhuli Vandana). This eclipse, which will be in the Virgo sign and Uttara Phalguni constellation, will be astrologically significant in India as well as in many parts of the world.
- According to astronomical calculations, the eclipse times will be as follows:
Penumbral Phase: 1:42 PM
Partial Phase: 2:50 PM
Total Phase Begins: 4:04 PM
Maximum Eclipse: 4:54 PM
Total Phase Ends: 5:44 PM
Partial Phase Ends: 6:58 PM
(In India, observing the eclipse from 6 AM onwards is considered to be pure in science.)
- Astrological Impacts:
1. Most impact on Virgo and Pisces: Since this eclipse is happening in Virgo, Virgo and the Pisces opposite it need to be more careful. They may experience mental stress or health complaints.
2. Emotional instability: Since the Moon is the factor of the mind, people may feel unnecessarily irritated, scared or emotionally confused during this period. Do not rush while taking important decisions.
3. Impact on Holi festival: Since the eclipse is on the day of Holi, it is necessary to be careful while playing with colors and celebrating festivals. Due to the lunar eclipse, Holika Dahan will be performed the day before, i.e. on March 2, and the eclipse period will be observed on March 3.
4. Natural and political changes: This eclipse indicates a natural disaster or major changes in the political sector. Fluctuations in the stock market and gold prices can also be seen.
- Lunar Eclipse Rules: A lunar eclipse is not just an astronomical event, but it is also considered a very sensitive time in spiritual terms. During this time, the subtle waves in the atmosphere affect our food and mind.
1. Who should observe the eclipse and who should avoid it?
Normal healthy people should observe the eclipse and its vedha. It is important to protect physical and mental energy during the eclipse. Children, the elderly, sick people and pregnant women have been given exemptions from the strict rules of the eclipse by the scriptures. They should eat and rest according to their health, but if possible, they should definitely chant the name of God.
2. Dietary rules (what to eat and what to avoid?)
Eating should be avoided from the time of the eclipse vedha (during the Sutak period). It is believed that cooked food gets contaminated during the eclipse, so the meal should be finished before the eclipse. Drinking water should also be avoided if possible during the eclipse. However, if necessary, drink water with basil leaves added. Add 'tulsi leaves' or 'darbha' to the milk, curd or stored water in the house. This preserves its natural properties and the waves of the eclipse do not affect it. It is considered best to take a bath and eat freshly cooked food after the eclipse is over.
3. What should be avoided during the eclipse period? (Taboo things)
Avoid sleeping while the eclipse is in progress (exception for sick people). Chopping vegetables, cutting cloth or sewing during the eclipse is considered inauspicious. Do not start any new or important work during the eclipse.
4. Which name should be recited? (Mantra Sadhana)
The eclipse period is considered the best for mantra siddhi and name recitation. It is said that chanting during this period gives a thousand times more fruit. Chant 'Om Somay Namah' and also say 'Om Namo Bhagwate Vasudevay' or 'Mahamrityunjaya Mantra'. To remove negativity, recite 'Hanuman Chalisa' or 'Bajrang Baan'. Reciting the name of your family deity is most effective.