Lunar Eclipse disrupts Holi 2026: When is Holika Dahan amid Sutak Kaal - know Purnima date and muhurat details

Lunar Eclipse disrupts Holi 2026: When is Holika Dahan amid Sutak Kaal - know Purnima date and muhurat details

The first lunar eclipse of 2026 falls on Holi, causing confusion over Holika Dahan timings. Rituals must be completed between 5:30 AM and 6:23 AM on March 3, before Sutak Kaal begins. Rangwali Holi will be celebrated on March 4.

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The first Lunar Eclipse 2026 is set to occur on March 3, coinciding with the festival of Holi. As Chandra Grahan on Holi 2026 falls on the same day as Holika Dahan, many devotees are confused about the correct Holika Dahan muhurat, Sutak Kaal timings, and whether the ritual can be performed on March 3.

According to the Hindu lunar calendar, Holika Dahan is observed on Phalguna Purnima, the full moon day of the Phalguna month. However, due to the eclipse and Sutak period, the traditional schedule sees an important adjustment this year.

Chandra Grahan 2026 date and festival clash

The Chandra Grahan 2026 will take place on March 3. Since eclipses are considered inauspicious for performing sacred rituals, the Sutak Kaal will affect the Holika Dahan timing. Key dates to note:

Because the lunar eclipse falls on March 3, no auspicious activities will be performed on that day during the Sutak period.

Purnima tithi and muhurat details

In 2026, the Phalguna Purnima Tithi begins at 05:55 PM on March 2 and ends at 05:07 PM on March 3. Since Holika Dahan is performed on Purnima night, devotees must carefully check the timing of Bhadra Kaal and Sutak Kaal before lighting the sacred bonfire.

Bhadra kaal and Holika dahan timing

Bhadra Kaal will begin at 05:58 PM on March 2 and continue until 05:30 AM on March 3. Traditionally, Holika Dahan should not be performed during Bhadra. As a result, the most suitable window to perform Holika Dahan will be after Bhadra ends and before Sutak begins.

Devotees can perform Holika Dahan between 05:30 AM and 06:23 AM on March 3. This short duration provides Purnima Tithi without Bhadra and before the Sutak Kaal starts at 06:23 AM.

When does sutak kaal begin?

The Sutak Kaal for the lunar eclipse will begin at 06:23 AM on March 3, 2026. Once Sutak starts, no religious rituals, puja, or auspicious ceremonies are performed.

Therefore, those planning to observe Holika Dahan must complete the ritual before Sutak Kaal begins.

Why this Lunar Eclipse is significant

A lunar eclipse occurring on Holi is considered rare and spiritually significant. While it creates scheduling confusion, following the correct muhurat ensures that traditions are maintained according to scriptures.

Devotees are advised to strictly follow the prescribed Holika Dahan 2026 date and timing, avoid rituals during Sutak, and celebrate Rangwali Holi on March 4 with devotion and joy.

This year, careful timing will ensure that both the sanctity of Holika Dahan and the observance of Chandra Grahan are respected in accordance with Hindu customs.