A significant majority of Pakistanis, 61 percent, are of the opinion that one should abstain from eating or drinking during a lunar eclipse, a new nationwide poll conducted by Gallup and Gilani Pakistan has revealed today.

This finding highlights the prevalence of traditional beliefs surrounding celestial events in the country. The survey data shows a deep-seated conviction among the populace, with 41% of respondents describing the practice as ‘very true’ and an additional 20% considering it ‘somewhat true’. Conversely, only 23 percent of participants dismissed the notion as ‘not true at all/just beliefs’.

The research further identifies that adherence to this custom is strongest among specific demographic segments. The belief is particularly pronounced among women, individuals with less than an intermediate (FA) level of education, and older adults.

These results underscore the enduring influence that cultural and long-held practices have in shaping health and dietary behaviors, particularly in response to astronomical phenomena.

The study was carried out by Gallup and Gilani Pakistan, the Pakistani affiliate of Gallup International. Fieldwork for the recent survey involved a nationally representative sample of 753 adult men and women from urban and rural areas across all four provinces. The data was collected via telephonic surveys from September 12, 2025, to September 23, 2025. The margin of error is estimated to be approximately ± 2-3 percent at the 95% confidence level.