Quick Guide to Chandra Grahan (Lunar Eclipse)

Here’s a quick yet detailed guide on Chandra Grahan (Lunar Eclipse) with important values and points:

🔹 What is Chandra Grahan?

Chandra Grahan occurs when the Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon, blocking sunlight and casting its shadow on the Moon. It is a celestial event with both scientific and spiritual significance in Indian tradition.

🔹 Types of Chandra Grahan

1. Purna Chandra Grahan (Total Lunar Eclipse): Moon fully covered by Earth’s shadow.

2. Anshik Chandra Grahan (Partial Lunar Eclipse): Only part of the Moon is covered.

3. Penumbral Lunar Eclipse: The Moon passes through Earth’s penumbra (outer shadow), causing a dim effect.

🔹 Scientific Significance

• A natural astronomical alignment of the Sun, Earth, and Moon.

• Helps in astronomical studies and predictions.

• No harmful rays scientifically proven, but Indian beliefs highlight spiritual effects.

🔹 Spiritual & Religious Significance (Hindu Beliefs)

1. Sutak Kaal (Inauspicious Period): Begins 9 hours before a total eclipse, 3 hours before a partial eclipse. Rituals like eating, cooking, and Pooja are avoided.

2. Meditation & Chanting: Considered highly powerful during Grahan.

3. Mantras:

   • “Om Namah Shivaya”

   • “Om Namo Narayanaya”

   • “Om Chandraya Namah”

4. Donations (Daan): Offering food, clothes, or essentials after Grahan brings punya (merit).

🔹 Do’s and Don’ts During Chandra Grahan

✅ Do’s:

• Chant mantras, meditate, read spiritual texts.

• Take a bath before and after Grahan.

• Protect food and water with tulsi leaves.

• Donate items after Grahan.

❌ Don’ts:

• Avoid eating, cooking, or drinking during Grahan.

• Avoid sleeping or indulging in negative acts.

• Pregnant women are advised not to go outside during Grahan to avoid negative energies.

🔹 Astrological Impact

• Chandra Grahan affects Moon sign (Rashi) and mind-related energies.

• Emotional imbalance, mental stress, or clarity may arise.

• Remedies: Chanting mantras, doing Shiva puja, and fasting.

🔹 Symbolic Values

• Moon = Mind & Emotions → Eclipse symbolizes inner cleansing.

• Grahan = Shadow → Time to remove negativity and hidden fears.

• Rituals ensure balance between spiritual and cosmic energies.

🔹 Key Points to Remember

1. Chandra Grahan happens only on Purnima (Full Moon).

2. Spiritual activities done during Grahan have 1000x more effect.

3. Sutak Kaal is strictly observed in Sanatan Dharma traditions.

4. Donations and mantra chanting are highly recommended.

✨ In summary:

Chandra Grahan is not just an astronomical event but a spiritually powerful moment for reflection, cleansing, and prayers. Observing proper rituals, mantras, and values during this time is believed to bring peace, protection, and blessings.