A spectacular total lunar eclipse will light up the sky tomorrow, offering a rare celestial event visible across most parts of India. The eclipse will begin at 3:20 PM and end at 6:48 PM, with the total eclipse phase occurring between 4:34 PM and 5:33 PM. In India, skywatchers can witness the total phase from around 6:20 PM for nearly 27 minutes. Except for parts of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and some northeastern states, most regions in the country will get a clear view of this complete lunar eclipse. Astronomers say India will next witness a similar total lunar eclipse only on December 31, 2028.
Eclipse Timings and Visibility in India
The lunar eclipse will unfold in multiple phases during the afternoon and evening hours. The most significant period, known as the totality phase, will last for nearly one hour globally. However, Indian viewers will see the total phase briefly after moonrise.
Weather conditions will play a key role in visibility. Clear skies will allow people to observe the reddish glow of the Moon, often called a “Blood Moon.” Astronomy enthusiasts have advised viewers to choose open spaces away from bright city lights for a better experience.
Tirumala and Yadagirigutta Temples to Remain Closed
Due to the eclipse effect, several prominent temples in the Telugu states will close during the eclipse hours. The world-famous Tirumala Venkateswara Temple will stop darshan at 9:00 AM and reopen at 7:30 PM after completion of purification rituals.
Similarly, the Yadagirigutta Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple will close at 7:00 AM and reopen the following day. Temple authorities also decided to conduct the Holi festival celebrations a day earlier in view of the eclipse.
Most temples follow the tradition of closing doors during eclipses and reopening only after performing purification ceremonies.
Srikalahasti Temple to Remain Open
In contrast, the famous Srikalahasteeswara Temple in Chittoor district will remain open. This temple is widely known as a Rahu-Ketu pilgrimage site. Priests will conduct special “Grahanakala Abhishekams” for the deity during the eclipse hours.
Devotees believe that prayers offered at this temple during an eclipse bring special spiritual benefits. Unlike other temples, authorities here encourage worship during the eclipse period.
Rare Celestial Event Draws Public Interest
Lunar eclipses occur when the Earth comes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon’s surface. The upcoming event has generated excitement among astronomy lovers and devotees alike.
Officials have urged people to follow temple guidelines and traffic advisories during the evening hours. With the next similar total lunar eclipse set for 2028, tomorrow’s event offers a rare chance for citizens across India to witness a stunning natural phenomenon in the sky.
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