Lunar Eclipse 2022: Nighttime skywatchers from East Asia to North America are in for a treat this Tuesday, November 8, 2022, as they will get to witness the rare spectacle of a “Beaver blood moon” Chandra Grahan, the second blood moon this year. NASA says that total lunar eclipses occur about once every year and a half on average, but the interval varies. It will be visible to the naked eye wherever there is a clear sky in eastern Asia, Australia, the Pacific, and North America. The moon’s redness will vary depending on the levels of air pollution, dust storms, smoke from wildfires, and even volcanic ash in these areas.
In India, the Lunar Eclipse 2022 sutak kaal will begin at 9:21 a.m. and end at 6:18 p.m. The Sutak period immediately preceding the eclipse is considered unlucky by Hindus. Drik Panchang asserts that Sutak is observed for nine hours prior to the Lunar Eclipse, or three Prahars before the eclipse itself, or before the Chandra Grahan begins.
Sutak time for children, the elderly, and the ill will begin at 2:48 p.m. and end at 6:18 p.m. Here are some rules to follow during Lunar Eclipse 2022’s sutak kaal time, when the Earth, moon, and sun align to produce a total lunar eclipse for the last time until 2025:
- During the lunar eclipse, it is generally advised to stay inside and not attempt any new activities or work.
- During the lunar eclipse, it is against the law to consume water, brush your teeth, comb your hair, give your hair an oil massage, use the restroom, and engage in sexual activity.
- During the lunar eclipse, it is strictly forbidden for pregnant women to go outside, cut or stitch anything, carry sharp tools like scissors or knives, or engage in any other similar activity because doing so could harm the baby.
- During the sutak kaal and eclipse, no solid or liquid foods are permitted.
- Chandra Grahan’s “dos and don’ts” state that food must contain Tulsi leaves until there is a lunar eclipse.
- Make a wish that Rahu will soon let go of the moon.
- To purify the mind and body before and after the eclipse, take a holy bath.