New Delhi: The second lunar eclipse of 2026 will coincide with Raksha Bandhan on August 28, prompting questions among devotees about whether the celestial event will affect the festival’s rituals.
According to the traditional Hindu calendar, Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on Shravan Purnima, the same day a partial lunar eclipse is scheduled to occur.
Astronomical calculations indicate that the eclipse will begin at 6:53 am IST and conclude at 12:31 pm IST, lasting approximately 5 hours and 38 minutes.
However, the eclipse will not be visible anywhere in India. It is expected to be visible only in parts of West Asia, Africa, Europe, North America and South America.
Because the eclipse is not visible in India, many astrologers and religious scholars say the Sutak period, which is traditionally observed before visible eclipses, will not be applicable. As a result, devotees can perform Raksha Bandhan rituals, including tying the rakhi, worship and other religious ceremonies, without interruption.
While beliefs and interpretations may vary among religious traditions, the widely followed view is that an eclipse not visible in India does not impose restrictions on festival observances. Consequently, celebrations of Raksha Bandhan are expected to proceed normally across the country.
