Phalguna Purnima 2026 and Lunar Eclipse: Dates, Rituals, and Observance Guidance

In 2026, Phalguna Purnima falls on March 2-3, coinciding with a total lunar eclipse (Chandra Grahan) on March 3. The full moon tithi begins on the evening of March 2 and ends on March 3, with the lunar eclipse and its associated Sutak period occurring on March 3. Scriptural guidance suggests observing the Phalguna Purnima fast on March 2 when the full moon rises during the tithi. The eclipse impacts traditional rituals like Holika Dahan, leading to debates on appropriate timings and observances during the Sutak period.