March 3, 2026, is considered highly significant from a religious and astrological perspective. On this day, Phalguna Purnima, a Lunar Eclipse, and Holika Dahan coincide, making it an especially important occasion. Due to the eclipse and Bhadra period, special attention is required while observing rituals and planning celebrations. Here is a complete and detailed overview of the date, timings, and auspicious periods.
Date and Tithi Details
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Day: Tuesday
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Date: March 3, 2026
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Hindu Month: Phalguna
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Paksha: Shukla Paksha
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Tithi: Purnima (Full Moon)
Purnima Tithi Timing
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Begins: March 2, 2026 at 5:55 PM
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Ends: March 3, 2026 at 5:07 PM
Purnima holds special importance as Holi is celebrated on the full moon day of Phalguna month.
Lunar Eclipse 2026 Timing
A rare coincidence occurs this year as the lunar eclipse falls around the time of Holi.
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Eclipse Begins: March 3, 2026 at 3:20 PM (IST)
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Maximum Eclipse: Approximately 6:33 PM to 6:40 PM
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Eclipse Ends: 6:47 PM (IST)
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Moonrise in India: Around 6:26 PM
In most parts of India, only the final phase of the eclipse will be visible because the Moon will rise while the eclipse is nearing its end.
Sutak Period (Inauspicious Period)
The Sutak period begins about 9 hours before the lunar eclipse.
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Sutak Begins: March 3, 2026 at 6:23 AM
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Sutak Ends: 6:47 PM (with eclipse conclusion)
During Sutak, religious rituals, auspicious activities, cooking, and temple visits are traditionally avoided. Many temples remain closed during this time.
Bhadra Kaal
Bhadra is considered inauspicious for performing important rituals such as Holika Dahan.
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Bhadra Begins: March 2, 2026 at 5:58 PM
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Bhadra Ends: March 3, 2026 at 5:30 AM
Holika Dahan should not be performed during Bhadra Kaal.
Holika Dahan 2026 – Auspicious Muhurat
Considering Bhadra, Sutak, and the eclipse timings, two suitable time windows are suggested for Holika Dahan:
Morning Muhurat
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March 3, 2026 from 5:30 AM to 6:23 AM
This period falls after Bhadra ends and before Sutak begins.
Evening Muhurat
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March 3, 2026 from 6:47 PM to 8:50 PM
This time is after the eclipse and Sutak period have ended and is widely considered more traditional and auspicious.
Most astrologers recommend the evening Muhurat as it ensures all inauspicious periods are over.
Rangwali Holi (Festival of Colors)
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Holi with colors will be celebrated on March 4, 2026.
The day following Holika Dahan is observed as the vibrant festival of colors.
Religious Significance
Holika Dahan symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Offering prayers and performing rituals around the sacred fire is believed to remove negativity and bring prosperity. During the eclipse, chanting mantras, meditation, and charitable acts are considered beneficial. After the eclipse, taking a holy bath and wearing clean clothes is traditionally advised.
March 3, 2026, is an astrologically and spiritually significant day due to the alignment of Phalguna Purnima, Lunar Eclipse, and Holika Dahan. If you are planning to perform rituals or celebrate the festival, carefully consider the Bhadra and Sutak timings.
May this sacred occasion bring positivity, renewed energy, and colorful joy into your life.