Chandra Grahan 2025: Lunar Eclipse to Coincide with Holi on March 14 - Date, Time, Visibility, and Cities to Witness 'Blood Moon'

Lunar Eclipse 2025: Coincides with Holi on March 14 - Date, Time, Visibility, and Cities to Witness Chandra Grahan

A rare celestial event is set to take place on March 14, 2025, as a total lunar eclipse coincides with the colourful festival of Holi. This unique alignment will bring a stunning "Blood Moon", where the Moon will turn deep red as it passes through Earth's shadow. The eclipse will occur during the Worm Moon, the last full moon of winter, and will also be a MicroMoon eclipse, meaning the Moon will appear slightly smaller than usual.

Lunar Eclipse 2025: Date, Time, and Duration

The total lunar eclipse on March 14, 2025, will be visible in different parts of the world. This MicroMoon eclipse will last for about 65 minutes, making it a captivating sight for those in regions where it will be visible.

The event will take place when the Moon is at its farthest point from Earth, which makes it look slightly smaller compared to other full moons. This will be the first lunar eclipse of 2025, and its deep red hue will add to the beauty of the night sky.

Will the Lunar Eclipse Be Visible in India?

Unfortunately, people in India will not be able to witness the total lunar eclipse as it will occur during daylight hours in the country. According to Dr. Rajendra Prakash Gupt, Superintendent of Jiwaji Observatory in Ujjain, the eclipse will mainly be visible in regions like North and South America, Western Europe, and Western Africa.

ALSO READ | Holi 2025: Date, Time, Rituals, and Significance of the Festival of Colors

Full List of Cities to Witness the Chandra Grahan

The best locations to observe the total lunar eclipse include:

North America:

• United States (New York, Los Angeles, Chicago)
• Canada (Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal)
• Mexico (Mexico City, Guadalajara)

• Brazil (Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo)
• Argentina (Buenos Aires)
• Chile (Santiago)
• Colombia (Bogotá)

Western Europe:

• Spain (Madrid, Barcelona)
• Portugal (Lisbon)
• France (Paris, Marseille)

• Ghana (Accra)
• Nigeria (Lagos)

Why Does the Moon Turn Red During an Eclipse?

During a total lunar eclipse, Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow over the Moon. The red glow, often called a "Blood Moon," happens because Earth’s atmosphere scatters shorter blue and green wavelengths of sunlight, allowing only red and orange light to reach the Moon. This results in the Moon appearing deep red or copper-coloured during totality.

Although India will miss this celestial show, it remains a significant event for sky enthusiasts worldwide, making March 14, 2025, a special day both for Holi and astronomy lovers.

ALSO READ |Blood Moon 2025: Total Lunar Eclipse Meaning, Astrological Effects & Zodiac Impact