Celebrating Raksha Bandhan 2026 Amidst the Lunar Eclipse

This year, Raksha Bandhan coincides with a lunar eclipse, raising questions about how to celebrate the festival. The *Shravan Purnima* will conclude before the eclipse ends, but there are no adverse effects to worry about. The auspicious time for tying the *Rakhi* is from 5:57 AM to 9:48 AM on August 28. Learn how to navigate the celebrations amidst the eclipse and ensure a joyful observance of this cherished festival.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 13, 2026, 10:49 IST

Raksha Bandhan 2026 and the Lunar Eclipse

This Year’s Lunar Eclipse on Raksha Bandhan: A lunar eclipse is scheduled to coincide with Raksha Bandhan this year. However, the *Shravan Purnima* (the full moon day in the Shravan month) will end before the eclipse concludes. This situation prompts the question: how should one observe Raksha Bandhan during the lunar eclipse? To clarify this, it is advisable to refer to the *Panchang* (Hindu calendar) for accurate details to ensure proper celebration of the festival.

Timing of Raksha Bandhan

When is Raksha Bandhan?
According to the Hindu calendar, Raksha Bandhan is observed on *Shravan Purnima*. This year, *Shravan Purnima* starts at 9:08 AM on Thursday, August 27, and lasts until 9:48 AM on Friday, August 28. Based on the *Udaya Tithi* (the date at sunrise), Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on August 28.

Lunar Eclipse Schedule

When will the lunar eclipse occur?
The lunar eclipse is set to happen on the morning of Raksha Bandhan (August 28), starting at 6:55 AM and ending at 12:30 PM. On that day, the *Shravan Purnima* date will only be valid until 9:48 AM.

Celebrating Raksha Bandhan During the Eclipse

How to celebrate Raksha Bandhan during the lunar eclipse?

Typically, auspicious activities are avoided during a lunar eclipse. However, it is essential to determine when the *Sutak Kaal* (the inauspicious period before the eclipse) begins. If *Sutak Kaal* were applicable, it could create complications, as it usually starts nine hours prior to the eclipse.

This particular lunar eclipse will not be visible in India. When an eclipse is not observable, the *Sutak Kaal* is not deemed valid. Therefore, since *Sutak Kaal* does not apply in this case, you can carry out auspicious activities. You can celebrate Raksha Bandhan on the day of the eclipse without any concerns about negative effects.

Auspicious Timing for Raksha Bandhan 2026

Raksha Bandhan *Muhurat* (Auspicious Time) 2026
This year, the auspicious time for Raksha Bandhan will be from 5:57 AM to 9:48 AM. Sisters will have about four hours to tie the *Rakhi* to their brothers. Since the Shravan Purnima tithi lasts throughout the day, the festival can be celebrated at any time, except during Rahu Kaal.

Visibility of the Lunar Eclipse

Where will the lunar eclipse be visible?
This lunar eclipse will be observable in Europe, North and South America, Africa, and parts of West Asia. Since it will be daytime in India during this time, the lunar eclipse will not be visible there.

Conclusion

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