Traditional Practices and Scientific Views on the 2026 Lunar Eclipse in India

The 2026 lunar eclipse, or Chandra Grahan, holds significant spiritual and cultural importance in India, prompting various traditional practices. Common rituals include purification baths, home cleaning, and chanting mantras to dispel negative energies. Tulsi leaves are added to food and water as a protective measure, while some avoid cooking or eating during the eclipse. Scientific perspectives clarify that sleeping or eating during the eclipse poses no health risks, contrasting with longstanding beliefs advising caution, especially for pregnant women.