Chandra Grahan 2020: A lunar eclipse is another name for Chandra Grahan. It is an astronomical as well as an astrological. A lunar eclipse takes place when the Earth during its orbit is between the Sun & the Moon. Meanwhile, a shadow is cast over the surface of the Moon which appears as blood red. This is why during Chandra Grahan, the sky appears as blood red.
Chandra Grahan 2020 – All you need to know!
Also Read: Surya Grahan
A lunar eclipse occurs only on a full-moon night. The type and duration depend on the closeness of either node of its orbit. There are three types of Chandra Grahan or Lunar eclipse:
- Full Lunar Eclipse: When the Earth covers the Moon entirely, we call the lunar eclipse as full or complete.
- Partial Lunar Eclipse: When only a part of the Moon enters the Earth’s umbra, it is a partial eclipse.
- Penumbral Lunar Eclipse: A Penumbral Lunar Eclipse is when the Moon is in the Earth’s Penumbra, entirely.
2020 will witness 4 Lunar eclipses:
| Date | Type | Duration |
| 10-11 January | Penumbral Lunar Eclipse | 22:37 to 02:42 |
| 5-6June | Penumbral Lunar Eclipse | 23:16 to 02:34 |
| 05-Jul | Penumbral Lunar Eclipse | 08:38 to 11:21 |
| 30-Nov | Penumbral Lunar Eclipse | 13:04 to 17:22 |
Chandra Grahan in Vedic Astrology
Moon forms an important part of the Navagrahas, in Vedic Astrology. It has a profound impact on astrology as well as zodiac signs.
When Rahu or Ketu aligns with it in a particular house or sign, a lunar eclipse occurs. Rahu is the north node of the Moon whereas Ketu is the south node. The Vedic myth states that Lord Vishnu got duped by a demon. Swarbhanu, a demon. He tricked Lord Vishnu and drank the “Amrit” gained after the Samudra Manthan. This angered Lord Vishnu who separated his body from his torso. Rahu is the head while Ketu is the torso. It’s said that Rahu and Ketu have animosity with the Sun and Moon, for being the informants. To punish them for their actions, Rahu and Ketu swallow the Moon and Sun.
Chandra Grahan is visible to our naked eyes on a full-moon night. The difference between Surya Grahan and Chandra Grahan is that Chandra Grahan is milder. It also lasts for a longer time than Surya Grahan.
Do’s and Don’t’s :
- Chandra Grahan is not a favorable period to begin any new projects or jobs. Even if one initiates a new task or project, the end result will not be satisfactory. Hence, it is best to avoid taking up new jobs or assignments.
- As per Vedic myth, pregnant women are most affected as a result of Chandra Grahan. They should not step out of their homes and also remain alert. Furthermore, the use of sharp objects are also prohibited.
- Another popular belief is that one should not keep cooked food & water at home during this. Stagnant water may also get polluted. We all must have seen our elders not storing any previously cooked food before the Grahan. It is best to finish it before the Lunar eclipse.
- Take a bath once the eclipse is over. Donate food, money to needy or underprivileged people.
- People also believe that one should not consume food and water during the eclipse. Brushing, bathing or combing your hair are also a big no-no!
Lunar Eclipse 2020: Sutak Kaal – Inauspicious Period
The onset of the inauspicious period starts before Chandra Grahan occurs in 2020. This is the Sutak period, as per Astrological scriptures. During this period, avoid starting any important work or project. The duration of this period begins prior to the eclipse, ie, 9 hours before it. But, the restrictions are not imposed on children, elderly, and new-borns.
Lunar Eclipse 2020: Lunar Eclipse Watching- Safe or Not?
While Solar eclipse is not visible to naked eyes, Lunar eclipse is visible to our naked eyes. Chandra Grahan is seen at night, as there are no risks from harmful rays. One can watch this event sans any protective eye gear. However, pregnant women should remain indoors. Because people believe that Lunar eclipse can affect the unborn child.
