Lunar eclipse (चंद्र
ग्रहण) can be seen in India
on Wednesday, October 8, 2014. It occurs at Full Moon, when Earth is between
the Sun and the Moon.
According to legend, during the Samudra manthan, the asura
Rahu drank some of the Amrit (divine nectar). In a matter of moments, the Sun
and the Moon recognized the asura and complained to Vishnu. But it was too late
to prevent the asura from becoming an immortal. To save the world from
potential problems, Vishnu concluded this divine play by beheading the asura
with his Sudarshan chakra. The head of the asura became Rahu, and his body
became Ketu. It is believed that this immortal head occasionally swallows the
sun or the moon, causing eclipses. Then, the sun or moon passes through the
opening at the neck, ending the eclipse.
Sutak on Chandra Grahan
Sutak is also known as Ashauch. The environment gets
polluted during the period of Sutak.
No good things can be done during the time of Sutak, as it
is considered as an unfavourable time. Sutak is usually observed 12 hours
before the Sun eclipse and 9 hours before the Lunar eclipse.
Things to avoid
during Grahan & Sutak
Grahan/Eclipse (Sutak) Timing: 17:47:38 to 18:04:20 IST
Lunar eclipse starts (with moonrise) at 17:47:38 and ends at
18:04:20 IST
Temples remain closed during Grahan.
Once eclipse gets over, idols of deities are offered a holy
bath and are cleansed from the negative effects of Grahan.
One should avoid having food exception for sick, old and
infant.
Ladies in Pregnancy are advised to stay indoors and avoid
eating during this time because this time might affect the child’s health and
disabilities could occur.
People should take a holy bath after the Grahan is over.
This is the best time to chant stotras dedicated to the gods
and goddesses.
One should also offer donation after Grahan.
Timing of Chandra Grahan:
Lunar Eclipse is on October 8, 2014 from 17:47:38 to 18:04:20
IST
In New Delhi it will be visible between 17:58 to 18:06 IST
