Mumbai: The year 2025 has now witnessed all its solar eclipses, with the last one taking place on the night of 21 September 2025. Astronomically, a solar eclipse is a rare and fascinating phenomenon. However, in Indian tradition and astrology, solar eclipses are not considered auspicious, which is why people often observe rituals and precautions.
The September 21 eclipse was the last Surya Grahan of 2025 and was not visible in India. With this, attention now shifts to the next year. Let’s take a closer look at when solar eclipses will occur in 2026, their dates, religious significance, and whether they will be visible in India or not.
When is the first solar eclipse of 2026?
According to astronomers, the first solar eclipse of 2026 will take place on Tuesday, 17 February 2026. Interestingly, this date falls a day after Maha Shivratri and coincides with the Amavasya Tithi of Phalgun month.
This eclipse will not be visible in India. Therefore, there will be no Sutak period or religious restrictions in India during this eclipse.
When is the second solar eclipse of 2026?
The second Surya Grahan of 2026 will occur on Wednesday, 12 August 2026, during the Amavasya Tithi of Shravan month. On the same day, Hindus celebrate Hariyali Amavasya.
Just like the February eclipse, this one too will not be visible in India. As a result, no Sutak period will apply for Indian devotees.
How many solar eclipses will take place in 2026?
In total, there will be two solar eclipses in 2026:
17 February 2026 – Not visible in India
12 August 2026 – Not visible in India
Since both eclipses are not visible in India, they will hold no astrological or religious significance for Indian believers, though they will remain important for astronomers and sky-watchers globally.