Mumbai: Holi, the festival of colours, is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India. It symbolises joy, unity, and the triumph of good over evil. However, this year, Holi will coincide with a lunar eclipse (Chandra Grahan), which is considered an inauspicious event in Hindu traditions.
The first lunar eclipse of 2025 is set to occur on March 14, the day of Holi. As per religious beliefs, certain activities should be avoided during this period, as they may bring negative consequences.
Holi and Lunar Eclipse 2025: Key Dates and Timings
Holi will be celebrated on March 14, 2025, as it falls on the full moon (Purnima) of the Falgun month according to the Hindu calendar.
- Falgun Purnima begins: March 13 at 10:35 AM
- Falgun Purnima ends: March 14 at 12:23 PM
- Holika Dahan: March 13, 2025
- Holi celebrations: March 14, 2025
Lunar Eclipse Timings on Holi
On March 14, a lunar eclipse will take place from 9:29 AM to 3:29 PM (IST).
Things to Avoid During the Lunar Eclipse
In Hindu beliefs, lunar eclipses are considered inauspicious, and certain activities are strictly discouraged during this period:
- Avoid cooking and eating: It is advised to refrain from preparing or consuming food during the eclipse.
- No needlework or cutting activities: Sewing, cutting, or peeling anything should be avoided.
- Stay indoors: It is recommended not to step outside during the eclipse, especially for pregnant women, as it is believed to have harmful effects.
- Avoid religious activities: Touching idols and performing prayers or rituals should be avoided during the eclipse.
- Do not sleep: Sleeping during an eclipse is believed to have negative effects on health.
What Should Be Done During the Lunar Eclipse?
To minimise the negative effects of the eclipse, one can follow these practices:
- Chant Chandra (Moon) mantras for spiritual benefits.
- Recite Vishnu mantras or the Maha Mrityunjaya mantra for protection and positivity.
- Take a ritual bath after the eclipse and sprinkle holy Ganga water in the house for purification.
- Place tulsi (holy basil) leaves in food items before the eclipse to prevent contamination and remove them afterwards.
Since this rare celestial event coincides with Holi, many devotees will take extra precautions to avoid any inauspicious effects. Religious institutions and astrologers are advising people to celebrate the festival while keeping these traditional beliefs in mind.
(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not independently verify the religious significance of these rituals.)
On March 14, Holi 2025 coincides with a lunar eclipse. Find out the Chandra Grahan timings, religious beliefs, and rituals to follow for a safe celebration. Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
