The first lunar eclipse of the year will take place on Thursday, March 14, 2025, coinciding with the festival of Holi. This eclipse, which is also known as Chandra Grahan in Hindi, will occur in the Leo zodiac sign and the Uttara Phalguni constellation. It is considered significant as it will appear as a blood moon (red moon).
Chandra Grahan 2025 Timings
The lunar eclipse will begin at 9:29 AM on Thursday and end at 3:29 PM. The blood moon will be visible from 11:29 AM to 1:01 PM.
Visibility of Lunar Eclipse
This Chandra Grahan will not be visible in India. However, it can be seen in North and South America, Europe, Australia and Africa.
Sutak Period Timing
The Sutak period, which begins nine hours before the eclipse, is considered inauspicious for religious activities. However, since the eclipse will not be visible in India, the Sutak period will not be observed in the country.
What is a Blood Moon?
A blood moon occurs when the Earth completely blocks sunlight from reaching the Moon, casting a shadow that gives it a reddish hue. This phenomenon happens during a total lunar eclipse.
Also Check | Lunar Eclipse 2025 on Holi: List of Dos and Don’ts During Chandra Grahan.
Impact of Lunar Eclipse on Zodiac Signs
The lunar eclipse is expected to have different effects on various zodiac signs:
Auspicious for: Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, and Scorpio – may bring positive outcomes.
Inauspicious for: Leo, Libra, and Capricorn – may face challenges.
Dos and Don'ts During the Lunar Eclipse
What to Avoid
Avoid anger, as the next 15 days may be difficult.
Do not eat food or perform religious rituals during the eclipse.
Avoid visiting secluded areas or cremation grounds due to the belief in increased negative energy.
Refrain from starting new ventures during the eclipse.
Married couples should avoid physical relations, as it is believed to affect peace and harmony at home.
Precautions to Take
Chanting divine mantras during the eclipse is believed to yield tenfold benefits.
Take a bath with clean water and donate to the poor after the eclipse.
Purify the house to remove negative energies.
Donating grass to cows, feeding birds, and giving clothes to the needy during the eclipse is considered highly meritorious.