The second and final total lunar eclipse of 2025 illuminated the night sky, captivating skywatchers across Odisha and beyond. The cosmic event began at 9:57:22 PM IST and will continue until 1:27:17 AM IST, lasting approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.
This rare celestial phenomenon, caused by the Earth aligning perfectly between the Sun and the Moon, cast a striking red hue over the Moon, popularly known as the “Blood Moon.”
Visible in regions including India, Australia, New Zealand, the Americas, and Fiji, the eclipse drew crowds of enthusiasts who gathered to witness the awe-inspiring sight.
In Odisha, residents stepped out into the night, marvelling at the glowing lunar spectacle. The event held special significance in Hindu traditions, with many adhering to customary practices such as refraining from eating or performing religious activities during the eclipse.
Notably, restrictions on cooking and consuming food, as well as certain religious practices, began nine hours before the eclipse at 12:57 PM IST on Sunday. This lunar eclipse marks a rare occurrence, with the last such event visible in Odisha and across India on September 7, 2006, during the Bhadrapada Purnima.
Astronomers note that the next total lunar eclipse visible in India on Bhadrapada Purnima will not occur until September 30, 2164, after a gap of 139 years, making this a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle for many.
The Blood Moon left an indelible mark on viewers, blending science, culture, and wonder in a breathtaking display that will be remembered for years to come.
