When Will the Solar Eclipse Occur in 2024:
The first
solar eclipse of 2024 will take place on the night of Monday, April 8th.
A solar eclipse is a celestial event. It occurs when the moon comes between the sun and the Earth. Solar eclipses hold significant importance for both scientific and religious reasons. We will answer many common questions about the solar eclipse, such as where it will be visible and what time it will occur.
Timing of the Solar Eclipse? (Solar Eclipse 2024 Timing)
Indian Standard Time, the first solar eclipse of the year will occur
from the night of April 8th at 9:12 PM to the late night of April 9th at 2:22 AM
.
The eclipse will last for a duration of 05 hours and 10 minutes.
Will the Solar Eclipse be visible in India? (Solar Eclipse 2023 Timing in India)
The solar eclipse will not be visible in India. This eclipse will be visible in Western Europe, the Pacific, Atlantic, Arctic regions, Mexico, excluding Alaska, parts of North America, Canada, Central America, and the northern parts of South America, as well as the north-western regions of England and Ireland.
Will the Sutak Kaal Apply in India? (Solar Eclipse 2024 Sutak Kaal)
Usually, the rules of Sutak Kaal become applicable 12 hours before the solar eclipse. During Sutak Kaal, people refrain from performing auspicious and religious activities. There is a prohibition on touching idols or engaging in worship during this time. Food consumption and cooking are also avoided. However, since the solar eclipse will not be visible in India, the Sutak Kaal restrictions will not be applicable. Daily routines and religious practices can be carried out without concern.
Why is this Solar Eclipse Special? (Solar Eclipse 2024 Significance)
The solar eclipse occurring on April 8th, 2024, will be a total eclipse. This phenomenon can also be referred to as an annular eclipse. It will coincide with the Pisces zodiac sign and Revati constellation, which is considered very special from an astrological perspective.
Can the Solar Eclipse be viewed with the Naked Eye? (Solar Eclipse 2024 Viewing)
Viewing the solar eclipse with the naked eye is considered harmful. Scientists suggest that looking at a solar eclipse without proper eyewear can damage one's eyes. Special glasses or filters should be used to safely observe the eclipse and protect your retina.
Precautions During the Solar Eclipse (Solar Eclipse 2024 Precautions)
1. Avoid touching divine idols or entering temples during the eclipse. 2. Refrain from cooking or eating during the eclipse. However, this restriction does not apply to the elderly, children, or those suffering from illnesses. 3. Avoid massages with oil, as well as cutting hair, beard, or nails during the eclipse. 4. If possible, stay indoors during the eclipse. Only go outside if absolutely necessary. 5. Pregnant women should take special precautions during this period. Avoid cutting, sewing, or knitting from Sutak Kaal until the end of the eclipse. Do not use sharp or pointed tools. 6. Do not look at the sun during the eclipse with naked eyes, as it may cause eye damage.
What to Do During or After the Solar Eclipse? (Solar Eclipse 2024 Rituals)
1. Engage in the recitation of religious scriptures or chanting of auspicious mantras. Chant as much as possible. 2. If a family member is seriously ill, chanting the Mahamrityunjay Mantra can be beneficial. 3. Before the eclipse begins, place holy basil leaves in your food. Pluck these leaves before Sutak Kaal starts. 4. Take a shower after the eclipse ends. 5. Once the eclipse is over, donate food or necessary items to the needy, according to your capability.
The Religious History of Solar Eclipses
The significance of a solar eclipse can be traced back to ancient scriptures. It is said that the first full solar eclipse occurred during the churning of the ocean as per Hindu mythology. The epic Ramayana mentions a solar eclipse in the Aranya Kanda, suggesting Lord Rama vanquished the demons Khara and Dushana on such a day. It is also noted that during the time Pandavas lost in a game of dice, a solar eclipse was present. In the Mahabharata, a solar eclipse occurred on the 14th day of battle, and it was also present during the slaying of Jayadratha by Arjuna and when Krishna's city of Dwarka submerged.
