Top 5 Lunar Eclipse Superstitions: Lunar eclipses are something that have always fascinated all over the world. Hence, in India, these heavenly sights are associated not only with astronomy but deeply rooted into cultural belief and traditions. In the case of modern science, eclipses are said to occur as the result of passing between the Sun, Earth, and Moon; but Indian folklore consists largely of superstitions passed down for centuries through generations. Let us look at the top five lunar eclipse superstitions in India and where their origins lie.
The most popular one, according to Hindu mythology. The legend speaks that the demon Rahu tricked the gods in the luring of the ocean (Samudra Manthan). When Vishnu discovered it, he cut off the head of Rahu. Since then, it has been believed that Rahu (the head) and Ketu (the body) swallow the Moon during eclipses, and darkness is cast.
One of the strongly believed superstitions is that nothing is to be eaten or drunk during an eclipse. It is believed from ages that food becomes impure and poisonous when exposed to the rays of an eclipsed Moon. While modern science doesn’t prove this, many homes still follow the custom.
To an Indian family, pregnant women should stay at home during the lunar eclipse. It is believed that this exposure could harm the unborn child and cause defects. Grandmother’s stories from long ago are responsible, for today doctors disallow any harm caused to pregnancy from Eclipses.
Most people take a bath after an eclipse and sometimes also sprinkle holy water (Gangajal) around their house. This particular ritual originated around the assumption that an eclipse brings in negative energy and that thus they would purify the surroundings with cleansing rituals.
Many begin to chant the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra or Shiva prayers during the eclipse. This stems from the belief that such divine protection is needed whenever adverse cosmic forces appear to be disturbed.
Also Read: Lunar Eclipse 2025: 9 Things You Must Strictly Avoid to Stay Safe
While recognized and classified scientifically today, the very Indian superstitions are a testimony to the integration of mythology, culture, and tradition in India. Given that these practices have survived until now, they serve as a reminder of how our ancestors have understood the enigmas of the universe.
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