Surya Grahan 2026: The first solar eclipse of 2026 is about to take place on February 17th in the Aquarius zodiac sign and Dhanishtha Nakshatra. This will be a Ring of Fire Eclipse. During the eclipse, the sun will appear like a shining bracelet. Astronomers predict that the moon may obscure approximately 96 per cent of the sun. Many questions have arisen regarding this solar eclipse, such as: what time will the eclipse occur? Will it be visible in India? Will its Sutak period be valid? Let us uncover the answers to all these questions below.
Surya Grahan 2026: Solar Eclipse In India Date
According to Indian Standard Time (IST), the solar eclipse will occur on Tuesday, February 17th, from 3:26 PM to 7:57 PM. The total duration of this solar eclipse will be 4 hours and 31 minutes. The Ring of Fire Eclipse is believed to peak between 5:13 PM and 6:11 PM.
Surya Grahan 2026: Will It Be Visible In India?
This is an annular solar eclipse and it will not be visible in India. It will only be visible in parts of Southern Africa, Antarctica, and South America, including Zimbabwe, Zambia, Tanzania, Namibia, Mauritius, Botswana, Mozambique, Argentina, and Chile.
Surya Grahan 2026: Sutak Kaal
The Sutak period begins 12 hours before a solar eclipse. However, the solar eclipse on February 17th will not be visible in India. Therefore, the Sutak period will not be valid.
When the Moon doesn't completely cover the Sun and the Sun's outer surface appears as a glowing ring, it's called a 'ring of fire' eclipse. (Image Source: Canva)
Dos And Don’ts To Follow During Solar Eclipse
According to religious beliefs, worship is prohibited during an eclipse. Idols of deities should not be touched during this time. Any auspicious or auspicious work should also be avoided. Cooking or eating food should also be avoided during the eclipse. Pregnant women, children, and the elderly should not leave their homes during this time.
What Is The Ring Of Fire Eclipse?
As mentioned before, this is an annular solar eclipse. This eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Sun and Earth. During this eclipse, the Sun appears as a bright ring from some parts of the Earth. This is known as the "Ring of Fire."
There are three main types of solar eclipses: a total solar eclipse, in which the Moon completely covers the Sun. A partial solar eclipse, in which the Moon obscures only a portion of the Sun. And an annular solar eclipse, in which the Moon appears smaller in the centre, with the Sun appearing behind it like a bracelet or ring with the edges shining.
(Disclaimer: This content includes advice providing generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified spiritual or astrological opinion. Always consult a specialist for more information before adopting any measures.)