The celestial event of Chandra Grahan (lunar eclipse) has long been revered in various cultures, particularly within the realms of Hinduism, astronomy, and astrology. A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth positions itself directly between the Sun and the Moon, thereby casting its shadow upon the Moon and temporarily dimming its luminosity. In the year 2025, the first Chandra Grahan is set to take place on Friday, 14th March . The nature, visibility, and timing of this eclipse will vary based on geographical locations. This will be a Total Lunar Eclipse also known as Purna Chandra Grahan .
Significance & Importance of Chandra Grahan
The Chandra Grahan (lunar eclipse) is an event of great astronomical, astrological and spiritual significance. From a scientific perspective, a lunar eclipse provides an excellent opportunity to study the interactions of celestial bodies, atmospheric effects, and lunar surface changes. Observers across different regions will witness the Moon darken, and in the case of a total eclipse, it may take on a reddish hue due to the scattering of sunlight through Earth’s atmosphere.
In Vedic astrology and Hindu traditions, a lunar eclipse is believed from times immemorial to have an impact on human life and nature. According to ancient texts, eclipses are linked to the mythological story of Rahu and Ketu, the shadow planets responsible for consuming the Sun and Moon temporarily. As a result, many observe sacred practices during the eclipse, including chanting mantras, observing fasts, taking ritualistic baths, and engaging in charity to counteract any perceived negative effects. It is also customary to avoid eating, cooking, and making major decisions during the eclipse period, as it is believed to be a time of heightened cosmic energy.
According to astrological principles, the Moon governs emotions, mind, and inner stability. When it undergoes an eclipse, its natural energies are disturbed, leading to heightened emotional sensitivity, mood fluctuations, and a sense of uncertainty. People may experience mental restlessness, confusion, or intensified thoughts, making it an important time for self-reflection rather than major decisions.
The specific impact of the Chandra Grahan will depend on its placement in the astrological charts, affecting different houses and planets in distinct ways. Some persons may feel its effects on personal relationships, while others might experience shifts in career, finances, or health. Individuals with a strong Moon in their natal chart or those whose Janma Rashi (Moon sign) aligns with the eclipse will likely feel its influence more profoundly.
The Chandra Grahan of 14 March 2025 will be of immense interest to scientists, astrologers, and spiritual practitioners. Further details regarding its visibility, duration, and astrological significance will become clearer as the date approaches, making it a highly anticipated event for both scientific study and spiritual observance.
History & Legends of Chandra Grahan
Throughout history, the phenomenon of Chandra Grahan (lunar eclipse) has been revered, feared, and mythologized across cultures. While modern astronomy explains it as the Earth's shadow obscuring the Moon, ancient civilizations sought divine or supernatural explanations. In Hindu mythology, the most famous explanation for the lunar eclipse comes from the legend of Rahu and Ketu, shadow planets that disrupt cosmic harmony. This story originates from the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), where the demon Swarbhanu deceitfully consumed a drop of Amrit (nectar of immortality). Upon being exposed, Bhagwan Vishnu beheaded him with the Sudarshana Chakra, but due to the nectar’s effect, his severed head (Rahu) and body (Ketu) became immortal entities. Filled with vengeance, Rahu and Ketu periodically swallow the Sun and the Moon, causing solar and lunar eclipses, though the luminaries always escape their grasp. This belief continues to shape Hindu customs, with many observing prayers, fasting, and mantra chanting during an eclipse to mitigate Rahu’s supposed malefic effects.
Beyond Hinduism, various cultures across the world have woven their own myths around lunar eclipses. In ancient Chinese traditions, a celestial dragon was believed to devour the Moon, prompting people to beat drums and create loud noises to frighten it away. Similarly, in Norse mythology, the wolves Sköll and Hati were said to chase the Moon across the sky, and an eclipse occurred when one of them caught it. The Mayans and Incas believed a cosmic jaguar attacked the Moon, signaling divine displeasure, while the Babylonians and Mesopotamians saw eclipses as ominous portents foretelling the downfall of rulers. Interestingly, ancient astronomers in these civilizations meticulously studied lunar cycles, developing precise calculations to predict eclipses centuries in advance. This blending of mythology and science underscores how celestial events have always been deeply intertwined with human civilization, influencing religious beliefs, governance, and cultural practices across millennia.
In the realm of Vedic astrology, Chandra Grahan is considered a moment of high cosmic energy, influencing not only the emotions and psyche of individuals but also broader planetary movements and natural occurrences. The Brihat Samhita , an ancient Sanskrit text on astrology and astronomy, discusses eclipses as celestial omens that can foretell changes in leadership, natural disasters, or social upheavals. The Mahabharata also references a solar and lunar eclipse occurring close to the time of the Kurukshetra war, suggesting its astrological significance in shaping historical events. Even today, Hindus observe traditional eclipse-related rituals, such as fasting, purifying baths, recitation of sacred mantras like the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra, and acts of charity to counteract negative influences. While the scientific understanding of lunar eclipses has evolved, the cultural, astrological, and spiritual reverence associated with Chandra Grahan remains deeply embedded in societies worldwide, bridging the gap between cosmic wonders and human consciousness.
Observance Date and Time
The Chandra Grahan (Total Lunar Eclipse) on March 14th, 2025 , will occur during the Poornima Tithi (Full Moon Day) of the Phalguna month in the Hindu lunar calendar.
- Total eclipse phase begins: 06:26 UTC
- Maximum of Lunar eclipse: 06:58 UTC
- Total eclipse phase ends: 07:32 UTC
This celestial event will be visible across North and South America, parts of Western Europe, and the Pacific region. Observers in these areas can witness the Moon turning a reddish hue during totality, a phenomenon often referred to as a 'Blood Moon.'
For those in India, this particular eclipse will not be visible. The next significant lunar eclipse observable from India is scheduled for September 7–8, 2025.
What to do on Chandra Grahan
During Chandra Grahan (lunar eclipse), spiritual traditions emphasize the need for purification and mindfulness, as it is believed to be a period of heightened cosmic energy. According to Hindu beliefs, an eclipse is caused by the shadow planet Rahu, which temporarily engulfs the Moon, disrupting its natural influence. As a result, people are advised to avoid eating or cooking food during the eclipse, as it is believed that food absorbs negative energies. Many also observe fasting (vrata), refraining from food and water until the eclipse ends, as a means of self-discipline and spiritual cleansing. It is common to take a bath before and after the eclipse, signifying the washing away of impurities and restoring positive energy.
Spiritual seekers and devotees engage in prayer, meditation, and mantra chanting to harness the transformative energy of the eclipse. The Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra and the Chandra Beej Mantra are often recited to seek protection from negative influences and enhance mental clarity. Reading sacred texts such as the Bhagavad Gita or chanting the Vishnu Sahasranama is also considered highly auspicious. Since the Moon governs emotions and the mind, astrologers suggest using this time for self-reflection, letting go of past burdens, and setting new spiritual intentions. Many temples remain closed during the eclipse, and idols of deities are often covered to prevent the absorption of inauspicious vibrations.
After the eclipse ends, rituals such as charity (daan-punya) and offerings to the needy are encouraged to counteract any negative effects. People also sprinkle Gangajal (holy water) in their homes for purification and prepare fresh food instead of consuming anything that was stored before the eclipse. Scientifically, while eclipses are natural astronomical events, these practices have symbolic significance in maintaining discipline, mindfulness, and spiritual awareness. Whether viewed from a religious or scientific perspective, Chandra Grahan remains a time of cosmic alignment that inspires awe and introspection.
Chandra Grahan Puja Vidhi (Puja Procedure)
The Chandra Grahan Puja Vidhi begins with preparatory rituals before the eclipse. Devotees take a purifying bath and wear clean clothes to maintain sanctity. It is advised to sit in a quiet place and chant sacred mantras such as the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra and Chandra Beej Mantra to seek divine blessings.
Many observe fasting (vrata), avoiding food and water until the eclipse ends, as it is believed to protect against negative cosmic influences. Pregnant women, elderly individuals, and those unable to fast are advised to recite prayers or meditate.
Once the eclipse ends, devotees take a ritual bath again to cleanse any negative energy absorbed during the event. Gangajal (holy water) is sprinkled in homes, and fresh food is prepared, as any food cooked before the eclipse is usually discarded.
Donations and acts of charity (daan-punya) are encouraged, such as offering food, clothes, or money to the needy. Reciting Vishnu Sahasranama or reading from sacred scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita is considered highly auspicious.
Performing these rituals with sincerity is believed to bring spiritual purification, peace, and divine protection from malefic planetary influences.
Chandra Grahan Puja Mantra
Chandra Beej Mantra
Sanskrit:
ॐ श्रां श्रीं श्रौं सः चन्द्रमसे नमः॥
Om Shram Shreem Shraum Sah Chandramase Namah ||
Meaning: I bow to Bhagwan Chandra (Moon), who governs emotions, mind, and tranquility. May his divine energy bring peace, mental clarity, and emotional balance into my life.
Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra
Sanskrit:
ॐ त्र्यम्बकं यजामहे सुगन्धिं पुष्टिवर्धनम्।
उर्वारुकमिव बन्धनान्मृत्योर्मुक्षीय माऽमृतात्॥
Om Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushtivardhanam |
Urvarukamiva Bandhanan Mrityor Mukshiya Maamritat ||
Meaning: We meditate upon the three-eyed Bhagwan Shiva, who is fragrant and nourishes all beings. May he liberate us from the bondage of death, just as a ripe cucumber is freed from its vine, granting us immortality.
Chandra Grahan Vrat Vidhi (Fasting Procedure)
Take a purifying bath before the eclipse begins and wear clean clothes. Set an intention for the fast and seek blessings from the divine. Then follow these steps:
- Avoid Food and Water – Traditionally, fasting begins a few hours before the eclipse. Many people avoid eating and drinking until the eclipse ends.
- Chanting and Meditation – Engage in mantra chanting, meditation, or reading scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita to maintain spiritual focus. The Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra and Chandra Beej Mantra are recommended.
- Avoid Certain Activities – Refrain from cooking, eating, sleeping, or performing major tasks during the eclipse period, as it is considered an inauspicious time for these.
- Taking a Ritual Bath – After the eclipse ends, take another bath to cleanse any negative energy absorbed during the event.
- Food Preparation and Consumption – Discard any food prepared before the eclipse and cook fresh meals after purification rituals. Some people break their fast with sattvic (pure) food.
- Charity and Prayers – Conclude the vrat by donating food, clothes, or money to those in need and offering prayers for peace, health, and well-being.
Chandra Grahan Vrat Katha (Traditional Fasting Story)
In ancient times, there lived a noble and righteous king named Harishchandra. He was known for his truthfulness and unwavering devotion to dharma. However, due to the influence of past karma, he was once caught in great hardship, losing his kingdom and wealth. To fulfill his promise, he wandered from place to place, enduring many difficulties.
One day, as fate would have it, the king and his family sought shelter in the ashram of sage Gautama. The sage, known for his wisdom and compassion, advised Harishchandra to observe the Chandra Grahan Vrat, as it was believed to cleanse past sins and bring divine blessings. The sage narrated an ancient story of a poor Brahmin who had suffered immense hardships but was freed from his misfortunes after observing this sacred vrat with sincerity.
Following the sage's guidance, King Harishchandra observed the fast on the night of the Chandra Grahan by refraining from food and water, chanting sacred mantras, and offering prayers to Bhagwan Shiva and Chandra Deva. At the end of the eclipse, he bathed in the holy river, performed charity, and sought blessings from the sages. Soon after, his troubles began to fade, and he was restored to his former glory. His honesty, combined with the power of the vrat, not only freed him from suffering but also earned him a place in the divine realms.
Since then, it is believed that observing the Chandra Grahan Vrat with faith and devotion helps in removing sins, granting peace, and bringing prosperity. Devotees continue to follow this practice, fasting, chanting mantras, and performing charity to seek divine grace and protection.
Chandra Moon Grah Puja Mantra Japa and Yagna
For those seeking spiritual protection and harmony during the total lunar eclipse on March 14, 2025, the Chandra Moon Grah Puja Mantra Japa and Yagna is highly recommended. This sacred ritual includes Chandra Graha Shanti Puja , mantra chanting (japa) , and a fire ritual (yagna) dedicated to Bhagwan Chandra, helping to balance lunar influences, reduce emotional disturbances, and attract positive energy. Performing this puja during the eclipse period enhances its benefits, bringing mental clarity, peace, and divine grace while mitigating any negative effects of the celestial event.
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Conclusion
Purna Chandra Grahan (total lunar eclipse) is a profound celestial event that signifies transformation, spiritual awakening, and the deep connection between cosmic energies and human consciousness. This sacred moment reminds us of the ever-changing cycles of life, urging us to embrace renewal, introspection, and divine alignment. Through fasting, meditation, mantra chanting, and acts of charity, devotees seek purification of the mind and soul, allowing them to transcend negativity and absorb the serene energies of Chandra Deva. As the moon momentarily darkens and then re-emerges in its full radiance, this event symbolizes the eternal truth that light always follows darkness, guiding us toward inner peace, clarity, and the path of spiritual elevation.
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