Eclipse 2026 Dates: The event of eclipse is considered very important in Hindu religion and astrology. The beginning of the year 2026 is going to be very bustling from astronomical and religious point of view. Solar eclipse and lunar eclipse are going to occur at an interval of just 15 days between February and March. According to the scriptures, whenever two eclipses occur in the same month, it is not considered auspicious. Let us know about the exact date, time and rules of Sutak period of these two eclipses.
Solar Eclipse 2026 (17 February)
- The first solar eclipse of the year will take place on Phalgun Amavasya on 17 February 2026.
- Will it be visible in India? No, this solar eclipse will not be visible in India.
Sutak period: According to religious beliefs, the Sutak period of an eclipse which is not visible in India is not valid here. Therefore, there will be no restrictions on normal life and worship on this day.
Lunar Eclipse 2026 (3 March)
- A lunar eclipse will occur on March 3, 2026, exactly 15 days after the solar eclipse. The special thing is that this day is also the festival of Holika Dahan.
- Will it be visible in India? Yes, this lunar eclipse will be completely visible in India.
Sutak period: Since this eclipse will be visible in India, its Sutak period will be effective. Sutak of lunar eclipse starts 9 hours before the eclipse starts.
What to do and what not to do during Sutak period?
When an eclipse is visible in India, it is considered mandatory to follow the rules of Sutak period:
Temple doors closed: As soon as the Sutak is installed, the doors of the temples are closed. Worship is prohibited even at home.
Food rules: One should avoid cooking and eating during Sutak period. However, this rule does not apply to the sick, elderly and children.
Basil leaves: Even before the start of Sutak, basil leaves should be added to milk, curd and cooked food so that they are not affected by the ill effects of the eclipse.
Mantra chanting: During the eclipse, sitting quietly and meditating on the deity or chanting mantras is considered to be the most fruitful.
Pregnant women should take special care
According to astrology, negative energy increases during eclipse, which can have a direct impact on pregnant women. They should keep these things in mind:
- Do not leave the house during the eclipse.
- Do not use sharp objects like needle, scissors or knife.
- Chanting the name of God instead of sleeping during eclipse is considered very auspicious.
Why is it considered inauspicious?
From the religious point of view, at the time of eclipse, the shadow of Rahu and Ketu falls on the Sun or Moon, which reduces the positive energy. Two eclipses in the same month are also considered a sign of natural disasters or turmoil in people’s lives.
Also read: Explainer: When will solar and lunar eclipses occur in the year 2026? Know everything in one click
Disclaimer: The information given in this news is based on religious beliefs and general information. TV9 Bharatvarsha does not confirm this.