Varanasi: Following the total lunar eclipse on Sunday night, devotees in Varanasi gathered along the banks of the River Ganga early Monday morning to take a holy dip and offer prayers, in line with traditional Hindu beliefs associated with eclipses.
The celestial event began at 8:58 PM and continued until 2:25 AM, visible across much of India. A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Moon moves into the Earth’s shadow, temporarily darkening the lunar surface. This phenomenon only takes place during the full moon when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align closely, particularly near a point known as the lunar node.
The eclipse drew enthusiastic crowds in several cities. In Bengaluru, visitors flocked to the Indian Institute of Astrophysics. Sahana, an early attendee, shared her excitement: “It was not fully red, but I could see the Moon in a light grey shade. I’m looking forward to seeing the Blood Moon later at night.”
In Delhi, despite cloudy skies, many gathered at the Nehru Planetarium in hopes of witnessing the event. “It’s cloudy right now, but we’re excited to see the eclipse and understand how it unfolds,” said one observer.
In Kolkata, students and astronomy enthusiasts came together at Paschim Banga Vigyan Mancha in Jadavpur to witness the rare sight. For many, it was a first-time experience. “This is the first time I’ve seen a Total Lunar Eclipse live. I’ve read a lot about the Blood Moon, but seeing it in person was something else,” said student Riya Bhattacharjee.
Providing a scientific explanation, Dr. Sandip Chakraborti, Director of the Indian Centre for Space Physics in West Medinipur, remarked, “This alignment of the Sun, Earth, and Moon is rare. It last occurred on January 31, 2018, and will happen next on December 31, 2028.”
As the awe-inspiring “Blood Moon” cast its reddish hue in the night sky, it united skywatchers across the country in a moment of celestial wonder — blending science, spirituality, and spectacle.
