Image Source: ANI
India is set to witness a Lunar Eclipse today, and ahead of this celestial event, priests performed the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi on Sunday. A lunar eclipse happens only during a full moon, when the Earth comes directly between the Sun and the Moon. During this alignment, Earth’s shadow falls on the Moon, dimming its brightness and often giving it a reddish hue, commonly called the “Blood Moon.”
On the banks of the Ganga in Varanasi, priests offered prayers to seek divine protection and reduce any negative effects of the lunar eclipse on people's health and well-being.
According to Priest Mahendra Nath, the lunar eclipse will occur from 9:57 pm to 1:26 am. He explained, “The lunar eclipse will begin at 9:57 pm and end at 1:26 am. The Sutak period for the eclipse will start at 12:57 pm.”
During this period, the priest advised caution regarding food intake, suggesting that only elderly, sick, and pregnant individuals should eat.
The upcoming lunar eclipse will occur in the Aquarius zodiac sign, making it a period of heightened significance for those born under this sign. Astrologers and priests advise Aquarius natives to be cautious in daily activities, health routines, and decision-making during the eclipse. Chanting the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra is recommended to help neutralize negative energies, promote physical and mental well-being, and protect against possible health disturbances.
Priest Mahendra Nath said, “Those born in Aquarius should practice caution and chant the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra as much as possible to avoid adverse health effects.” He further suggested avoiding strenuous work, traveling long distances, and consuming heavy or unfamiliar foods during the eclipse. Engaging in spiritual practices, meditation, and prayers is believed to enhance positive energy and reduce the impact of planetary shifts.
The priest also highlighted that the lunar eclipse could bring beneficial effects for individuals under Aries, Scorpio, and Sagittarius, offering them opportunities for personal growth, career advancements, and emotional stability. For the other zodiac signs, minor challenges could arise, such as health fluctuations, emotional stress, or delays in work and personal matters.
Additionally, Mahendra Nath advised that all zodiac signs use this time for introspection and spiritual reflection, as the eclipse period is considered powerful for setting intentions, letting go of negativity, and improving overall life balance. He emphasized that following these precautions and spiritual practices can help mitigate the adverse effects of the lunar eclipse while amplifying its positive potential.
According to OP Gupta, Senior Planetarium Engineer at Nehru Planetarium, the lunar eclipse will last about 48 minutes. He explained, “In Delhi, the penumbral phase will begin at 8:58 pm. The partial eclipse starts at around 9:57 pm and will reach its peak at approximately 11:48 pm. Its total duration will be a little over 48 minutes.” This will be the second lunar eclipse of 2025, following the first one in March.
Also Read: Don’t Miss the Planet Parade and Blood Moon in September 2025
