As soon as the lunar eclipse arrives, the biggest question that arises is whether one should eat during the eclipse or not. It has been believed for centuries in Indian traditions that one should not eat during a lunar eclipse. It is believed that one should finish eating 2-3 hours before the eclipse begins.
This time, there is a lot of discussion about the Blood Moon Lunar Eclipse on 7-8 September 2025. According to religious beliefs, ‘Sutak Kaal’ starts during the eclipse, which starts 9 hours before. During this time, the environment is considered impure, so neither food is cooked nor eaten. Tulsi leaves are added to the already cooked food and water in the houses so that it remains safe and pure.
Eclipse is also considered inauspicious from a spiritual point of view. It is said in the scriptures that at this time the cosmic energy becomes unbalanced and eating food can have a negative effect on the body. This is why people observe fasts and spending time in meditation, chanting or Bhajan-Kirtan is considered auspicious.
On the other hand, if we look from a scientific point of view, then lunar eclipse has no effect on food. Scientists say that this tradition is just a cultural belief and symbolic belief. However, eating late at night can affect digestion, so there may be a tradition of abstaining from food during eclipse. There are many beliefs about pregnant women as well. Family members advise them not to go out during eclipse, not to use sharp things and to avoid eating.
Although science does not support these beliefs, people still follow them due to tradition and discipline. Overall, abstaining from food during lunar eclipse is linked to religious faith, spiritual belief and cultural tradition. Science may not consider it harmful, but it is still a part of the lives of crores of families in India.
