This weekend brings a highly anticipated celestial event: the final solar eclipse of 2025, set to occur on September 21st. Unfortunately for skywatchers in India, this Surya Grahan will not be visible. However, those in the Pacific islands, Antarctica, New Zealand, and eastern Australia will have the opportunity to witness this mesmerizing phenomenon. Astrological traditions suggest a series of ‘do’s and don’ts’ to observe during a solar eclipse to safeguard one’s energy and well-being. Let’s delve into these important guidelines.
Embracing the Solar Eclipse: The ‘Do’s
Meditation and Prayer
During the Surya Grahan, it is highly recommended to sit quietly on a kusha aasana (a sacred grass mat) and engage in chanting mantras dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, or Goddess Durga. If formal chanting isn’t possible, simply close your eyes and meditate on the sacred sound ‘AUM’ to find inner peace and spiritual connection.
Stay Indoors
Protect your personal energy by remaining indoors throughout the duration of the solar eclipse. This practice is believed to shield you from any potentially negative astrological influences.
Utilize Kusha or Tulsi Leaves
To prevent contamination, it’s advised to place Tulsi Patra (holy basil leaves) or Kusha grass in all edible items. These sacred plants are believed to purify and protect food and water.
Recite Sacred Texts
If chanting mantras proves challenging, immerse yourself in the wisdom of religious scriptures. Reading texts like Sundar Kand, Ramacharitmanas, or the Bhagavad Gita can provide spiritual solace and protection during the eclipse.
Cover Idols of Deities
Before the Surya Grahan commences, ensure that all idols of gods and goddesses in your home are respectfully covered. This gesture is a traditional practice observed during eclipses.
Purify with Gangajal
Once the solar eclipse concludes, purify your surroundings and aura by sprinkling Gangajal (holy water from the Ganges River) throughout your home. This ritual is believed to cleanse any residual negative energies.
Ritual Bathing
It is traditionally believed that one must take a purifying bath after the solar eclipse. If a full bath isn’t feasible, a symbolic cleansing by sprinkling Gangajal is also considered effective.
Precautions During the Solar Eclipse: The ‘Don’ts’
Avoid Eating
During the Surya Grahan, it is generally advised to refrain from eating. However, exceptions are made for individuals suffering from chronic diseases, who may consume food and medicine as needed.
Postpone New Beginnings
This day is considered inauspicious for new ventures. Therefore, it’s best to avoid initiating any new projects or important undertakings during the eclipse period.
Refrain from Cooking
Traditional beliefs suggest that cooking during a solar eclipse is inauspicious. It is recommended to avoid preparing meals during this time.
Do Not Use Sharp Objects
According to age-old beliefs, using sharp objects during the Surya Grahan should be avoided as a precautionary measure.
Abstain from Drinking
Similar to eating, it is advised not to drink any beverages during the solar eclipse.
Avoid Touching Sacred Items
During the eclipse, it is suggested to avoid touching idols of gods, goddesses, and the holy Tulsi plant, which are considered sacred.
No Physical Intimacy
One should refrain from any form of physical intimacy or interaction during the eclipse period, adhering to traditional spiritual guidelines.