📅 4 February 2026 – Wednesday – Chandra Grahan (Lunar Eclipse)
Date: 4 February 2026 (Wednesday)
Event: Lunar Eclipse (Chandra Grahan)
Month: Magha (bright fortnight)
Day: Wednesday
🌑 Significance & Astronomical Overview
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes into the shadow of the Earth, causing its visible surface to darken or redden.
For the year 2026, the major lunar eclipse visible is listed as 3 March 2026 (total lunar eclipse) according to astronomy sources.
Therefore, the keyword date of 4 February 2026 does not appear in mainstream astronomy eclipse-lists for a visible lunar eclipse in India. (So one must check local panchang sources to confirm any local visibility or classification as Chandra Grahan.)
In Hindu tradition, any lunar eclipse (Chandra Grahan) holds religious significance. Even if the eclipse is not fully visible in a given location, the concept of Sutak, ritual purity, and auspicious/inauspicious timing may be observed.
🔍 Rituals, Purity & Guidelines
Sutak Period: Many traditional panchangs will prescribe a Sutak period beginning several hours (or up to 12 hours) before the eclipse until it ends. This period is treated as inauspicious for certain activities (e.g., cooking, joyful celebrations, new ventures).
During Eclipse: Devotees often avoid eating or drinking at the exact time of eclipse, may stop worldly work, may worship or chant, maintain mental calm, and avoid putting clothes to dry in the open.
After Eclipse: Once the eclipse ends and after purification (e.g., cleaning the house, bathing), normal activities resume. Some perform special pujas, chant mantras, and engage in charity or feeding the needy.
Suggested Observances for the Day (based on tradition):
- Take a bath (after the eclipse ends) and purify the home.
- Avoid cooking new food during the Sutak period; some abstain from eating cooked food until the Sutak ends.
- Chant the names of the Lord (such as “Om Namah Shivaya”, “Om Namo Narayanaya”) and engage in dhyana (meditation).
- If one wishes, offer food or clothes to the needy after eclipse ends, symbolising renewal.
- Use this as a time for introspection, dharma, and spiritual resolve.
🕒 Approximate Time & Visibility (India)
Because there is no standard listing for a lunar eclipse on 4 February 2026 in mainstream astronomy sources for India, one must refer to local panchang for exact times. Standard listings for 2026 show the total lunar eclipse on 3 March 2026.
Thus:
- If an eclipse is visible in your region on 4 February, note the moonrise/moonset, penumbral/umbral phases and apply local Sutak timing as per temple/panchang guidance.
- If not visible, one may still observe ritual purity as recommended by religious customs (subject to local tradition).
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is there a lunar eclipse visible in India on 4 February 2026?
A1. Based on major astronomy sources, no clearly-documented lunar eclipse is listed for 4 February 2026 in India. The major lunar eclipse of 2026 is listed as 3 March.
Nevertheless, certain local panchangs or tradition may mark a Chandra Grahan day based on other factors (e.g., partial/penumbral phases). It is advisable to check a credible regional Panchang.
Q2. What if the Moon is not visible during the eclipse in my city?
A2. If the Moon is below the horizon or the eclipse phases are not visible in your location, many texts suggest that the ritual importance lessens. Some sources say that when the eclipse is not visible, the full Sutak restrictions may not apply. You should follow the local temple/panchang’s guidance.
Q3. What should be avoided during Sutak and the eclipse?
A3. Standard tradition suggests avoiding: cooking fresh food, eating during Sutak, beginning new major undertakings, cutting hair or nails, and attending joyful social events. After eclipse ends, then normal activities resume with purification.
Q4. What is the benefit of observing rituals on a lunar eclipse day?
A4. Observing the Sutak, doing jap (chanting), dhyana (meditation), and charity during eclipse are believed to bring spiritual benefits: cleansing of the mind, removal of karmic effects, protection, and greater devotion. It is also an opportunity for inner quiet and reflection.
Q5. Do I have to fast during Chandra Grahan?
A5. Fasting is optional in many traditions. Some observe a partial fast or avoid freshly cooked food; others simply avoid eating during the eclipse phase, and then after the eclipse ends resume normal food. Follow your family or temple tradition for guidance.
Panchang Official