Skywatchers in India have a rare treat coming up on March 3, 2026: a total lunar eclipse, also known as a Blood Moon, will grace the night sky. What makes this event especially noteworthy is its timing—it falls on Holi, the vibrant Hindu festival of colors, adding a cosmic twist to the celebration.
Not All of India Gets the Blood Moon
This total lunar eclipse is the first of the year, and it will unfold in several stages. However, there’s a catch for most of India. While the Moon will rise already eclipsed, only observers in the northeastern regions—think Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and neighboring areas—will catch the dramatic “Blood Moon” effect, when the Moon turns an eerie shade of red during totality. For the rest of the country, the total phase happens while the Moon is still below the horizon. As a result, people in central and western India will only see the later partial stages once the Moon comes into view.
The eclipse wraps up locally by 18:47 IST, so the window for viewing is brief. If you’re hoping for the best show, find an unobstructed eastern horizon and cross your fingers for clear skies. Unlike solar eclipses, which require you to be in the right place at the right time, lunar eclipses are visible from any location on the night side of Earth. But in this case, geography matters for catching the Blood Moon’s peak.
A Celestial Coincidence
Adding to the rarity, this Chandra Grahan (as lunar eclipses are called in India) coincides with Holi—an event that has both astronomical and cultural significance. The last major eclipse event, an annular solar eclipse on February 17, 2026, was missed by most Indians because its “Ring of Fire” path never touched the subcontinent. This time, at least part of the celestial show is visible to millions, even if not everyone gets to see the full red Moon.
For those keen on exact timings or who want to know what the eclipse will look like from their city, astronomy apps like Sky Tonight can provide a personalized view. In any case, March 3 promises to be a memorable night, blending festival lights with lunar shadows—a cosmic spectacle that’s not to be missed.
