In view of the lunar eclipse, special rituals are being observed at the Jagannath Temple (Srimandir). The temple was opened at 2 AM for the beginning of the rituals, which will continue until 12 noon.
After that, from 12:57 PM, cooking will be stopped and no further rituals will be conducted inside the temple. Following the completion of the eclipse at night, the temple will reopen at 2 AM with the Dwaraphita Niti (opening of the temple doors). This will be followed by the Mangala Alati ritual at 2:40 AM.
Skywatchers across India are in for a celestial treat tonight as a total lunar eclipse, popularly known as the Blood Moon, will be visible in its entirety from all parts of the country.
Astronomers say this rare event is significant not only for its striking deep-red appearance but also for its long duration — making it a major astronomical highlight of 2025.
Key Eclipse Timings
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Penumbral phase begins: 9:57 PM
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Total eclipse begins: 11:01 PM
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Midpoint (maximum eclipse): 11:42 PM
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Total eclipse ends: 12:23 AM (Sept 8)
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Moon exits Earth’s shadow completely: 1:27 AM
Astronomers explain that the reddish glow of the Moon — giving rise to the term “Blood Moon” — occurs because sunlight passing through Earth’s atmosphere is scattered, allowing mainly red wavelengths to reach the lunar surface.
Traditional Observances & Rituals
In Odisha, the lunar eclipse is accompanied by age-old religious customs and temple rituals.
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Pre-Eclipse Period: The observance began at 12:57 PM today, with devotees refraining from cooking, eating, and performing religious ceremonies.
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Exemptions: Children, elderly individuals, and those who are ill are traditionally exempt from these restrictions.
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Post-Eclipse Purification: Devotees will bathe and resume worship during Brahma Muhurta hours (around 4 AM).
Special Arrangements at Puri Jagannath Temple
At the Jagannath Temple (Srimandir) in Puri, special arrangements have been made:
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The temple opened at 2 AM today for ritual preparations, which continued until 12 noon.
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From 12:57 PM, cooking of Mahaprasad and other rituals were halted.
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After the eclipse ends tonight, the temple will reopen at 2 AM, when the Dwaraphita Niti (opening of the temple doors) will be conducted, followed by Mangala Alati at 2:40 AM.
Temple administration has urged devotees to adhere to the traditional observances and participate in the post-eclipse rituals early Monday morning.
Why This Eclipse Matters
Astronomers note that such total lunar eclipses are relatively rare and occur after long intervals. Tonight’s event follows the earlier total lunar eclipse of March 2025 and will serve as a prelude to the total solar eclipse set to occur in August 2026 — the first to be visible in mainland Europe since 2006.
