On 7 September 2025, India along with many other countries will witness a rare celestial event. The lunar eclipse, also known as Chandra Grahan, is considered significant both in terms of astronomy and astrology. According to the Indian calendar, the eclipse will begin at 9:58 PM and end at 1:26 AM after midnight. The peak of the eclipse will occur at 11:41 PM, making the total duration nearly three hours and twenty-eight minutes.

This lunar eclipse will be visible across the country, and due to traditional beliefs, the Sutak Kaal will begin from 12:58 PM on the same day. The Sutak period will last until the eclipse ends. During this period, temples will remain closed, and no auspicious activities or rituals are performed.

Lunar Eclipse 2025 in India: Date, Time, and Duration

The September lunar eclipse will start on Sunday night at 9:58 PM and will reach its maximum phase at 11:41 PM. It will end at 1:27 AM on 8 September. The total visible duration of this eclipse is three hours and twenty-eight minutes, making it one of the longest lunar eclipses in recent years.

This event falls on Bhadrapada Shukla Purnima, a full moon night considered sacred in Hindu tradition. As per the Panchang, the Sutak Kaal begins nine hours before the eclipse. Hence, from 12:58 PM onwards, religious restrictions will be observed across temples and households.

Importance of Sutak Kaal During Chandra Grahan

Sutak Kaal is observed with strict discipline in India. It is believed that during this time, the environment carries negative energy. For this reason, cooking, eating, and performing religious ceremonies are prohibited. Pregnant women, elderly people, and children are advised to take extra care during this phase. Temples across the country will close their doors from the beginning of Sutak Kaal until the eclipse ends.

Astrologers suggest that people should avoid initiating new tasks or making important decisions during this period. Chanting of mantras such as Gayatri Mantra, Guru Mantra, and Ramayana verses is considered auspicious. Devotees also engage in kirtan and meditation to purify the mind and body.

Rituals and Practices Followed During Chandra Grahan

Traditionally, people put tulsi leaves or kusha grass in their food before Sutak begins. This is believed to protect the food from negative effects. After the eclipse ends, many people take a bath and perform charity such as donating food and clothes.

According to Acharya Vyas, the rules of Sutak are not applicable to infants, elderly people, and sick individuals. For everyone else, the restrictions are followed strictly as part of cultural and religious discipline.

Impact of Lunar Eclipse on Pregnant Women

Chandra Grahan is believed to have a special effect on expectant mothers. Pregnant women are advised not to go outside during the eclipse. Activities such as cutting vegetables, sewing, or using sharp objects are avoided. Traditional advice includes applying cow dung paste on the stomach as a protective measure. These practices are followed with the belief that they safeguard both mother and child from harmful influences during the eclipse.

Religious Beliefs During Chandra Grahan

Hindu traditions state that idols of gods should not be touched during the Sutak and eclipse period. As a result, temples remain closed and rituals are suspended. The belief is that divine energy becomes inactive during this time, and prayers should be resumed only after the eclipse is over. Once the eclipse ends, temples reopen with purification rituals and prayers.

Chandra Grahan 2025: Rare Astronomical Significance

Astronomically, this lunar eclipse is part of the Saros series 128. This sequence of eclipses is often associated with unique patterns in the sky. The September eclipse will be a complete lunar eclipse, lasting around eighty-two minutes in its totality. This makes it one of the longest total eclipses in recent memory.

The event is also referred to as a Supermoon, as the moon will appear larger and brighter than usual. Due to its reddish glow, the phenomenon is popularly called a Blood Moon or Corn Moon. The striking red shade occurs when sunlight filters through the Earth’s atmosphere and falls on the moon.

Visibility of the Lunar Eclipse in India

The Chandra Grahan on 7 September 2025 will be visible in most parts of India. Cities including Delhi, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Lucknow, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Pune, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi, Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, Guwahati, Bhopal, Nagpur, and Raipur will have clear views of the eclipse, weather permitting.

Apart from India, this rare lunar eclipse will also be visible in other countries across Asia, Europe, and Africa. For sky gazers, this will be a chance to witness a celestial spectacle without telescopes, as the red moon can be seen with the naked eye for nearly one and a half hours.

Astrological Impact of Chandra Grahan 2025

Astrologers predict that this eclipse, occurring in Saturn’s sign Aquarius, will influence several zodiac signs. The moon will align with Purvabhadra and Shatabhisha constellations during the event. Such planetary positioning is expected to bring changes on a personal and global scale.

Some astrologers believe that the eclipse may bring challenges in relationships and financial matters for certain signs. However, it is also considered a time for spiritual growth and self-reflection. Devotees are encouraged to focus on prayers, meditation, and chanting during this period.

Why Chandra Grahan Fascinates Astronomers and Devotees

Lunar eclipses have fascinated humanity for centuries. For astronomers, the event offers an opportunity to study the alignment of celestial bodies, the Earth’s shadow, and atmospheric effects. For devotees, it is a time of deep religious faith, rituals, and observances.

The September 2025 eclipse combines both scientific wonder and spiritual importance. The unique blend of tradition and astronomy makes this event highly anticipated across the country.

Scientific Explanation of the Lunar Eclipse

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon. As a result, the Earth casts its shadow on the Moon. When the alignment is perfect, the Moon enters the umbra, or the darkest part of Earth’s shadow, leading to a total lunar eclipse.

The reddish glow, or Blood Moon effect, occurs because sunlight bends through the Earth’s atmosphere. While shorter wavelengths scatter, the red and orange hues travel through, illuminating the Moon.

Preparations Across India for Chandra Grahan

In India, people prepare for the eclipse with religious and cultural activities. Before Sutak begins, temples perform special prayers and close their doors until the eclipse ends. Many households clean and purify their surroundings. Devotees prepare for chanting and spiritual practices during the night.

News reports indicate that cities are making arrangements for public viewing, though most people prefer to observe the eclipse from their homes or rooftops. Astrological consultations are also in demand, as people seek guidance on the eclipse’s possible effects on their lives.

What to Do After the Lunar Eclipse

After the Chandra Grahan ends, many people take a ritual bath as a sign of purification. Food prepared before Sutak is often discarded, and fresh meals are cooked. Charity plays a big role as people donate grains, clothes, and other essentials to the needy. This practice is believed to remove negative effects and bring blessings.

In temples, priests perform purification rituals to reopen the shrines. Special prayers are offered to restore the sanctity of the idols. For devotees, this is a moment of renewal and gratitude.

The Chandra Grahan on 7 September 2025 is not just a celestial event but also a moment of cultural and spiritual reflection in India. With its long duration, rare astronomical significance, and deep religious impact, this lunar eclipse has captured the attention of both scientists and devotees.

As the moon turns red in the night sky, millions across India and the world will witness the beauty of nature and the mystery of the cosmos. While astronomers study the phenomenon, devotees will immerse themselves in prayers, making the 2025 lunar eclipse an unforgettable blend of science and faith.