The last solar eclipse of 2026 is scheduled for August 12. According to Indian time, it will begin at 09:04 AM, reach its peak at 11:16 PM, and conclude on August 13 at 01:27 AM. This eclipse will occur in the Cancer sign under the Ashlesha constellation.
According to the Hindu calendar, this solar eclipse coincides with the period of Hariyal Amavasya. It is important to note that this eclipse will not be visible in India, and consequently, the ritual period of Sutuk will not be observed in the country, meaning there will be no significant impact on the residents of India.
In accordance with Hindu beliefs, a solar eclipse always occurs on the day of Amavasya. There is a belief that a demon named Swarabhanu, whose head was separated from his body, became Rahu, and he devours the Sun on the day of Amavasya.
From an astronomical perspective, a solar eclipse occurs when the Moon is positioned between the Sun and the Earth, and the Moon's shadow begins to fall on Earth. In the areas where this shadow falls, the Sun is either completely obscured or appears largely dark. This astronomical phenomenon is called a solar eclipse.
This eclipse will be observable in the North Pacific region, Western Europe, West Africa, and North America. The main path of the eclipse will pass through Greenland, Iceland, and Northern Russia. A total eclipse can be seen in some parts of Spain and Portugal, while in several other regions of the world, it will only be partially visible.
Therefore, it is recommended to worship the deities and recite mantras while remaining calm during the eclipse. Pregnant women should stay indoors. After the eclipse ends, it is necessary to take a bath, and the following morning, offerings related to the Sun should be made.
