Lunar Eclipse Today Timings Live Updates: Chandra Grahan 2026 Sutak Kaal, Visibility In India, How To Watch And More

Yes, the total lunar eclipse will be visible in India, though the extent of visibility depends on the region. Northeastern states are expected to see totality at moonrise, making them prime locations for observation.

Eastern India may witness the later part of totality or early partial phases, while North, Central and Western India will mostly see partial phases.

Southern India will also observe partial stages. Weather conditions, including cloud cover and pollution levels, may affect clarity, so checking local forecasts is advisable before heading outdoors.

This lunar eclipse is described as a “Grastodaya” event in many Indian cities because the Moon rises already in an eclipsed state. Instead of witnessing the gradual darkening, observers will see the Moon emerge above the horizon partially or totally shadowed. This creates a visually dramatic effect as the reddish or darkened Moon contrasts against the twilight sky.

Such events are relatively uncommon and heighten public interest. For photographers and astronomy enthusiasts, the combination of twilight hues and a darkened Moon offers exceptional imagery opportunities.

Moonrise timing plays a crucial role in determining what viewers can see in their city.

• In Guwahati, the Moon rises at 5:45 PM during totality, offering one of the best views in the country.
• Dibrugarh sees moonrise at 5:40 PM with deep totality visible, while Shillong at 5:44 PM may witness the Blood Moon effect.
• Kolkata’s moonrise at 6:00 PM allows for late total or partial visibility, whereas Patna at 6:12 PM sees partial phases.
• New Delhi’s moonrise at 6:26 PM likely captures only the ending partial phase, and Mumbai at 6:30 PM will see a late partial glimpse.
• Southern cities such as Chennai, Hyderabad and Bengaluru will also observe partial phases around their respective moonrise times.

• The eclipse unfolds in multiple stages throughout the afternoon and evening of March 3, 2026.
• The penumbral phase begins at 2:14 PM IST, followed by the partial eclipse at 3:30 PM IST.
• Totality starts at 4:58 PM, reaching maximum eclipse at 5:25 PM, and concludes at 5:32 PM.
• The partial phase ends at 6:47 PM, and the penumbral phase concludes at 7:53 PM.

However, because moonrise in India occurs in the early evening, many regions will only witness the later stages of the eclipse. This timing makes the event particularly dramatic at dusk.

Tonight, India is witnessing a total lunar eclipse that coincides with Holi, creating a rare blend of celestial drama and cultural celebration. A lunar eclipse takes place when the Earth aligns between the Sun and the Moon, blocking direct sunlight from illuminating the lunar surface. As the Earth’s shadow gradually moves across the Moon, it darkens and may eventually glow red during totality.

This event is completely safe to observe with the naked eye and requires no special protective equipment. While the eclipse begins in the afternoon, most Indians will only see it around moonrise. The experience will differ depending on location, making city-specific timing crucial for viewers.