The first lunar eclipse of 2026 is set to occur on Tuesday evening, leading to closures and religious guidelines issued by priests and temple authorities in various states. Religious leaders have detailed the eclipse’s timing, the ‘Sutak Kaal’ observance, and precautions for devotees. In Uttar Pradesh, Acharya Ramvilas Chaturvedi explained that the eclipse is a “rising eclipse,” visible in the northeastern region from 3:20 P.M. to 6:47 P.M.
In Bihar, Satyendra Ji Maharaj of Maa Dakshineshwar Kali Temple mentioned that the eclipse, starting at 3:20 P.M., will have a Sutak period beginning nine hours earlier. He advised on spiritual practices during this time and precautions to be taken. Temple closures during the Sutak Kaal were also observed in Uttar Pradesh, with the Hanuman Temple’s priest, Shailendra Tripathi, confirming the prohibition of idol worship and rituals.
Pandit Shyam Ji Pathak highlighted this as the first lunar eclipse of 2026, lasting from 3:20 P.M. to 6:48 P.M., emphasizing the spiritual significance of chanting and performing practices during the eclipse. In Jharkhand, Pahari Temple priest Manoj Kumar mentioned the closure of temple doors due to the eclipse and the commencement of the Sutak period nine hours prior. Across states, temple authorities followed traditional practices, closing doors during the Sutak period and encouraging home prayer and mantra chanting.
