Varanasi and Ayodhya are making extensive preparations for the lunar eclipse arriving on September 7, 2025. Given the immense religious and spiritual significance of this celestial event, doors to the Ram Mandir and all major monasteries and temples were shut starting at 12:30 PM today. Public darshan will resume only on the following morning, following the traditional adornment and Mangala Aarti rituals after the celestial phenomenon concludes entirely.
Timings and Sutak Period
The Sutak phase associated with the lunar eclipse is scheduled to commence at 1:57 AM. According to precise astronomical calculations, the eclipse itself will begin at 9:57 PM and will draw to a close at 1:27 AM. Throughout this designated window, all formal worship, prayers, and religious ceremonies inside the temples remain suspended. Scientifically, this event occurs when the Earth, Moon, and Sun align in a straight line, while traditional beliefs view it as a sensitive period, keeping the regular darshan of Ramlala temporarily on hold.
Rituals Along the Ghats
As soon as the celestial shadow takes effect, special religious rituals will pick up pace along the various ghats of Ayodhya. Monks, saints, and visiting devotees plan to engage in continuous chanting of major mantras, alongside organizing yagnas and fire rituals meant to neutralize any negative influences. Local administration has formally requested devotees to stay indoors during the Sutak period and adhere to traditional practices involving mantra recitation, charity, and ritual bathing.
Cleanup and Administrative Arrangements
Authorities have put comprehensive cleanliness and security arrangements in place along the banks of the Saryu river for this occasion. Local priests emphasize that taking a ritual bath and making donations after the eclipse concludes brings immense spiritual merit and helps dispel negative energies. Both municipal bodies and temple trusts are working in tandem to ensure that proceedings remain orderly and that visitors face no disruptions.
