The darkest lunar eclipse of the decade

The lunar eclipse, which falls today (June 15), is touted to be the darkest lunar eclipse of the decade. Commencing at 11:52pm, the eclipse will be at its peak at 1:45am and concludes at 3:32 am, the following morning. The lunar eclipse lasts a total duration of three hours and 39 minutes, and will be visible across India. Don’ts during Lunar EclipseDo not watch the eclipse with naked eyesDo not get involved in decision making of any kindDo not have arguments with your motherDo not eat non-vegetarian foodDo not engage in any sexual activityDo’s during Lunar EclipseBe mindful, if your Moon Sign is Aries, Taurus, Cancer, Libra, Scorpio or CapricornPerform birthstar puja, if you were born under any of these stars — Rohini, Mrigasira, Ashlesha, Hasta, Chitra, Jyeshta, Shravana, Dhanishtha or RevatiPerform the ancestral ritual called Tarpanam (prayerful offering of water and sesame seeds to one’s departed forefathers)Wear gemstones such as Pearl, Moonstone, Green Emerald or Green JadeEat your dinner 4-5 hours before the eclipse. This would be around 7pm for people residing in India, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Singapore, PhilippinesTake a shower before and after the eclipseStart any spiritual activity, such as chanting a mantra or sacred soundMeditate on your chosen deity or symbol of divinityCover food items and place darbha grass (a special grass that absorbs harmful radiations) on themConduct ceremonies of materialistic nature at least three days after the eclipseGive donation or perform acts of charity