Noida, March 3: The impact of religious beliefs and traditions surrounding the lunar eclipse was prominently observed in the NCR region. As the ‘sutik’ period commenced nine hours before the eclipse, the doors of major temples were closed to devotees.
According to tradition, the ‘sutik’ period is considered inauspicious. Consequently, regular worship and religious ceremonies in temples are suspended during this time.
Temple management committees reported that the doors were officially closed at 6:20 AM with the recitation of mantras. Devotees present were kindly asked to adhere to the religious beliefs associated with the ‘sutik’ period and to conduct prayers and hymns at home. In several locations, the morning aarti was completed ahead of schedule, after which the temple premises were completely vacated.
Religious beliefs suggest that negative energy increases during a lunar eclipse. Therefore, idols of deities are specially covered, and worship materials are stored safely. No religious activities are conducted in temples during the ‘sutik’ period.
Temple management indicated that the doors would reopen after the eclipse at 7:00 PM. Following this, a thorough cleaning of the temple premises will take place. The purification process will include sprinkling of holy water, lighting incense and lamps, and chanting special mantras. Afterward, special worship and aarti will be conducted, allowing devotees to participate.
Authorities and temple committees have urged devotees to respect the traditions associated with the lunar eclipse and ‘sutik’, and to visit the temples after the designated time while avoiding crowds. A sense of faith and curiosity surrounding the lunar eclipse prevails across various areas of NCR.
– Piyush
Leave a Comment