Holi This Year To Coincide With Lunar Eclipse: Here's What You Should Know

This year's inaugural lunar eclipse, a remarkable astronomical phenomenon where the moon passes through Earth's shadow, aligns with Holi, one of India's major festivals.?

When will lunar eclipse occur?

On March 25, the night sky will dim briefly as the moon enters the shadow | Image: Pexels

On March 25, the night sky will dim briefly as the moon enters the shadow, coinciding with the vibrant celebration of Holi, known as the festival of colors. The upcoming lunar eclipse is forecasted to be a Penumbral lunar eclipse.

A penumbral lunar eclipse takes place when the Moon traverses the penumbra, the lighter part, of Earth's shadow, resulting in a partial dimming of sunlight falling on the Moon. Though the moon remains visible, its brightness is reduced, allowing skywatchers to still observe it.

Where to watch it?

While the lunar eclipse is scheduled for March 25, beginning at 10:23 AM and ending at 3:02 PM, calculations indicate it won't be visible from India. Consequently, the customary "sutak period," during which certain activities are restricted, holds no relevance in India for this celestial event.

The lunar eclipse will be observable in select regions including Ireland, Belgium, Spain, England, South Norway, Italy, Portugal, Russia, Germany, the United States, Japan, Switzerland, Netherlands, and France.

How will the eclipse affect Holi 2024?

Holi rituals can proceed without interruption during the auspicious muhurta | Image: Pexels

Concerns arise about the lunar eclipse coinciding with Holi celebrations and whether it will affect traditional observances.?

Fortunately, as the eclipse won't be visible in India, there's no need to adhere to the sutak period. Holi rituals and ceremonies can proceed without interruption during the auspicious muhurta.

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