By Krishna Dua 
A Celestial Spectacle: Chandra Grahan 2025
Introduction
The celestial stage is set for a breathtaking performance as the second and final lunar eclipse of the year, known as Chandra Grahan, is set to take place on September 7, 2025. This total lunar eclipse, which will be visible across all of India, holds immense significance not only for astronomers and sky-watchers but also for millions of people who follow its spiritual and astrological implications. This eclipse is particularly notable as it coincides with Pitru Paksha Purnima, a sacred period dedicated to honoring ancestors, making it a unique and powerful event from a cultural perspective.
Understanding Chandra Grahan
A Chandra Grahan, or lunar eclipse, occurs when the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow that obscures the lunar surface. There are three main types of lunar eclipses:
- Total Lunar Eclipse: This is the most dramatic type of eclipse, where the Moon is completely engulfed by the Earth’s dark, inner shadow (umbra). During this phase, the Moon often takes on a reddish-orange hue, a phenomenon commonly known as a “Blood Moon.” This happens because some sunlight, refracted by the Earth’s atmosphere, reaches the Moon, with the shorter blue wavelengths scattered away and the longer red wavelengths passing through.
- Partial Lunar Eclipse: In this type of eclipse, only a portion of the Moon enters the Earth’s umbra. From an observer’s perspective, it appears as if a “bite” has been taken out of the Moon.
- Penumbral Lunar Eclipse: This is the least dramatic type of eclipse, where the Moon passes through the Earth’s faint, outer shadow (penumbra). This causes a subtle dimming of the Moon’s surface that can be difficult to notice with the naked eye.
The Chandra Grahan on September 7-8, 2025, will be a total lunar eclipse, promising a spectacular and unforgettable visual experience for all who are able to witness it.
Date and Exact Timing Across India
For observers in India, the entire eclipse will be visible from start to finish, assuming clear skies. The event will unfold over several hours, offering a prolonged opportunity for viewing. Since the entire event will be visible simultaneously across India, here are the key timings in Indian Standard Time (IST):
- Sutak Period Begins: 12:57 PM IST on September 7, 2025.
- Penumbral Eclipse Begins: 8:58 PM IST on September 7, 2025. This is when the Moon first enters the Earth’s faint outer shadow. The change in the Moon’s brightness will be very subtle and may be difficult to detect with the naked eye.
- Partial Eclipse Begins: 9:57 PM IST. The Moon will start to enter the darker, central part of Earth’s shadow (the umbra). This is when the action really begins, and observers will see a distinct “bite” taken out of the Moon.
- Total Eclipse Begins (The Blood Moon): 11:00 PM IST. The Moon will be fully engulfed in the Earth’s umbra. This is the moment the Moon will take on its spectacular reddish hue.
- Maximum Eclipse: 11:41 PM IST. This is the peak of the eclipse, when the Moon is at its deepest point within the Earth’s shadow, and its color will be at its most intense.
- Total Eclipse Ends: 12:22 AM IST on September 8, 2025. The Moon will start to emerge from the umbra, and the red glow will begin to fade.
- Partial Eclipse Ends: 1:26 AM IST. The Moon will have fully emerged from the Earth’s umbra.
- Penumbral Eclipse Ends: 2:25 AM IST. The final phase of the eclipse will conclude as the Moon fully exits the Earth’s outer shadow.
The total duration of the eclipse is approximately 3 hours and 28 minutes, with the totality phase (the “Blood Moon”) lasting for a remarkable 82 minutes.
Spiritual and Astrological Significance in India
In India, a lunar eclipse is not just a scientific event; it holds deep spiritual and astrological significance. According to ancient Vedic traditions, a Chandra Grahan is considered an inauspicious time due to the influence of the shadow planets Rahu and Ketu.
- The Sutak Period: The Sutak Kaal is an inauspicious period that begins 9 hours before the start of a total lunar eclipse. During this time, many people adhere to certain rituals and restrictions. It is believed that the eclipse magnifies negative energies, and therefore, it is advised to avoid activities like eating, cooking, and sleeping. Pregnant women are especially advised to take precautions during this period. Temples across the country may remain closed and will only reopen after a thorough cleansing ritual has been performed once the eclipse ends.
- Rituals and Practices: Despite being an inauspicious period for new beginnings, a Chandra Grahan is considered a spiritually potent time for introspection, prayer, and meditation. Many people engage in chanting mantras, performing Japa, and offering prayers to mitigate the negative effects of the eclipse. Taking a holy dip in a river after the eclipse is considered a purifying act.
- Astrological Impact: According to astrologers, the September 7, 2025 lunar eclipse will take place in the zodiac sign of Aquarius, with the Moon being influenced by Rahu and Saturn. This alignment is believed to bring about intense emotional and mental shifts, especially for individuals with certain planetary positions in their birth charts. Astrologers have recommended specific mantras and rituals for each zodiac sign to counter the negative effects and harness the transformative energy of the eclipse for spiritual growth.
Viewing the Eclipse in India
The total lunar eclipse of September 2025 will be visible from all parts of India, including major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse is completely safe to observe with the naked eye. However, to enhance the viewing experience, a few simple tips can be followed:
- Find a Clear Sky: The most important factor for a good view is a clear, unobstructed sky. Try to find a location away from city lights and tall buildings.
- Use Binoculars or a Telescope: While not necessary, a pair of binoculars or a telescope can provide a more detailed and magnificent view of the Moon’s surface as it changes color.
- Check the Weather: Make sure to check the local weather forecast for clear skies on the night of September 7.
Conclusion
The Chandra Grahan on September 7-8, 2025, is a rare and unique celestial event that offers a moment of both scientific awe and spiritual reflection. From a scientific perspective, it is a magnificent display of planetary alignment. From a spiritual perspective, it is a powerful time for cleansing, introspection, and ancestral healing. Whether you are an astronomy enthusiast or a follower of ancient traditions, this total lunar eclipse provides a unique opportunity to connect with the cosmos and witness a truly spectacular event