The final total lunar eclipse of 2025 will be visible on the night of September 7-8, with the Moon turning a striking crimson red during the 82-minute-long Blood Moon phenomenon.
The eclipse holds added significance in India as it coincides with Pitru Paksha Purnima, a day sacred for ancestral rituals in Hindu tradition. Devotees are urged to observe specific practices to maintain spiritual purity and avoid inauspicious influences.
Lunar Eclipse 2025 Timings In India
8:58 pm (September 7): Penumbral eclipse begins. This marks the moment when the Earth’s penumbral shadow starts to touch the Moon’s surface.
9:57 pm (September 7): Partial eclipse begins. This is when the Moon starts entering the Earth’s umbral shadow, gradually turning a reddish hue.
11 pm (September 7): Total eclipse begins. The Moon is fully immersed in Earth’s umbral shadow, turning completely red and marking the start of the total lunar eclipse.
11:41 pm (September 7): Maximum eclipse. This is the moment when the Moon is closest to the centre of Earth’s shadow.
12:22 am (September 8): Total eclipse ends. The Moon begins to move out of Earth’s shadow.
1:26 am (September 8): Partial eclipse ends. This marks the end of the partial phase of the eclipse.
2:25 am (September 8): Penumbral eclipse ends. The Moon fully exits the Earth’s penumbral shadow.
Chandra Grahan 2025: Do’s to Follow
- 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.
- 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.
- Recite the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, especially if suffering from illness or mental distress.
- Hanuman Chalisa and Bajrang Baan are recommended for protection from negative energies.
- Take a holy dip in the Ganga river, especially on this auspicious Pitru Paksha Purnima.
- Read sacred texts and scriptures during the eclipse period.
- Pregnant women should keep a coconut filled with water in their laps before the eclipse, later immersing it in flowing water to protect the unborn child.
- Add Kusha seeds or Tulsi Patra to food items to prevent them from absorbing negative energy.
Chandra Grahan 2025: Don’ts to Avoid
- Avoid all auspicious activities, including weddings, housewarmings, and new ventures.
- Do not cook or eat food during the eclipse period.
- Abstain from physical intimacy during the eclipse and sutak phases.
- Refrain from touching idols or sacred objects during the eclipse.
- Avoid touching the Tulsi plant or visiting temples.
- Stay out of temples during the eclipse.
- Do not handle sharp objects like knives or scissors during this time.
As the Blood Moon graces the night sky on September 7, it is an opportunity not just for astronomical wonder but also for spiritual reflection. By observing these ancient practices and precautions, devotees can align themselves with cosmic energies in a positive and mindful way. (Agencies)
