Chandra Grahan 2023: Sutak in India; Dos and Don’ts for Pregnant Women

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• Oct 28, 2023 | Guriya Khatun

This year, on October 28, at 11:31 p.m., there will be the last lunar eclipse, which will conclude at 3:36 a.m. on October 29.

Digital Desk: A lunar eclipse, or Chandra Grahan, is an astronomical event in which the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, casting the Earth's shadow on the latter. The Moon briefly darkens or dims as a result, and occasionally during the eclipse, it appears to take on a reddish or coppery tinge. This year, on October 28, at 11:31 p.m., there will be the last lunar eclipse, which will conclude at 3:36 a.m. on October 29. According to in-the-sky-org, this lunar eclipse will be seen in India from the night sky of New Delhi.

Hindus consider Sutak to be an inauspicious period. Staying indoors and avoiding new activities or tasks is common advice during the eclipse.

Chandra Grahan Sutak is scheduled to start at 9:21 AM, according to Drik Panchang. At 6:18 p.m., the Sutak will conclude. Children's, senior citizens', and sick people's sutak time starts at 2:48 PM. Children's, elderly, and sick people's sutak will cease at 6:18 p.m. Pregnant women are especially urged to take care of themselves during this period to avoid any negative effects on their unborn child. Thus, during "Chandra Grahan," expectant mothers should be aware of the following dos and don'ts.

Chandra Grahan 2023: Dos And Don’ts For Pregnant Women

Dos

· Remain Indoors: Pregnant women are generally advised not to go outside during a lunar eclipse. The purpose of this is to shield the unborn from any hazardous radiation or negative energy related to the eclipse. Being inside is a preventative step.

· Take a Bath After The Eclipse: It is recommended that expectant mothers take a ritual bath as soon as the eclipse is over. This is viewed as a means to cleanse oneself of any harmful influences of the eclipse.

· Chant Mantras: There is a belief that chanting prayers or mantras during an eclipse helps shield the mother and the unborn child. Mantras are thought to have a calming and spiritually uplifting effect.

· Cover Windows and Curtains: During an eclipse, it is customary in some cultures to cover windows and curtains. This is thought to keep any dangerous radiation or energy out of the house.

· Avoid Eating: According to some, it is inauspicious to eat or drink during an eclipse. It's common advice for expectant mothers to abstain from eating and liquids during this time.

Don’ts

· Avoid Using Sharp Objects: It is not advised to use scissors or other sharp objects during the eclipse. It is thought that doing so could be harmful to the unborn.

· Don't Watch the Eclipse: It's not a good idea to start watching an eclipse—lunar or solar—because it might cause eye damage. Women who are expecting should refrain from staring directly at the eclipse without appropriate eye protection.

· Avoiding Physical Work: During the eclipse, expectant mothers are encouraged to relax and refrain from physical activity. This is to protect the mother's and the child's health.

· Don't Perform Rituals or Pujas: Because the eclipse is thought to be an unlucky moment, it is advised that pregnant women refrain from doing any religious rites or pujas.

· Postpone Vital Decisions: According to many traditions, making crucial decisions during the eclipse may have unfavourable effects. Delaying important decision-making during pregnancy is a common advice given to expectant mothers.