There will be a total of four eclipses this year -- two lunar eclipses and two solar eclipses. A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun. This obscures the image of the Sun for viewers on Earth, either totally or partly.
This year's first solar eclipse will occur on April 20. As per astrology, it will occur in Aries and Ashwini Nakshatra. It will be a hybrid solar eclipse. Hybrid solar eclipse is a rare phenomenon. It is a combination of an Annular Solar Eclipse and a Total Solar Eclipse. During this type of Solar Eclipse, viewers on Earth witness the Sun forming a ring shape for a few seconds around the moon. However, watching the eclipse is considered unsafe, especially with your naked eyes. This gets further complicated in case of expecting mothers.
See more: Solar Eclipse 2023 Live: Surya Grahan begins, timings, Live stream in India
Solar eclipse 2023: What is Sutak?
According to Drik Panchang, the inauspicious time before Surya Grahan is known as 'Sutak'. It is believed that during this time the Earth's atmosphere is contaminated and extra precautions should be taken to avoid any harmful side effects caused by such contamination.
Surya Grahan 2023: Is Solar eclipse good or bad luck?
Solar eclipses are viewed as good or bad, based on your culture. In India, people follow many myths or beliefs that consider an eclipse as a bad omen. However, not everyone sees eclipse as something negative in this country, and the perception between different communities and cultures.
Surya Grahan 2023: What will happen if a pregnant woman sees a solar eclipse?
Solar eclipses are thought to be harmful for pregnancy, according to ancient beliefs and astrology. As per the traditional beliefs, if the expecting mother gets exposed to the direct rays of the sun or moon while the eclipse is happening, it may affect the developing baby by causing a physical deformity, cleft lip or birthmarks. Please note that there is no scientific proof to back this claim.
Still, if you are worried about your pregnancy when an eclipse is around the corner, here are some safety precautions you can take:
1. Remain indoors throughout the entire duration of a solar eclipse.
2. The doors and the windows should be covered with thick curtains so the potentially harmful rays outside do not enter your indoor premises.
3. Do not watch the solar eclipse, directly or indirectly.
4. Avoid sleeping during the duration of a solar eclipse.
5. Avoid using sharp objects like needles, scissors, knives, etc.
6. Do not indulge in any risky activity which could lead to any injury.
7. During an eclipse, it is recommended to avoid consuming or cooking any food. It is believed that the negative effects of the eclipse can contaminate your food which may impact our child’s growth and development. However, if you feel hungry, it is suggested to consume only thoroughly washed fruits. Only freshly cooked food should be consumed after Eclipse.
8. Avoid applying oil on your hair or body during or before the eclipse as it is believed to increase the negative effects of the eclipse.
9. After the end of an eclipse, pregnant women should take a bath to wash away any potential negative effects of the Surya Grahan.
Surya Grahan: Here are some frequently asked questions about Solar Eclipse 2023:
What are the timings of solar eclipse?
It will start at 7:04 AM and end at 12:29 PM.Will eclipse 2023 be visible in India?
As per reports, this hybrid solar eclipse will not be visible in India. It will be visible from western Australia, East Timor, and eastern Indonesia from 21:36 Eastern Daylight Time on 19 April till 2:59 AM.What will happen if we look at the sun directly during an eclipse?
Exposing your eyes to the sun without proper eye protection during a solar eclipse can cause retinal burns. This is called solar retinopathy.What is the effect of an eclipse in astrology?
As per astrology, solar eclipses signify new beginnings and change. They often mark the beginning of a new cycle or phase in our lives. When viewed positively, solar eclipses can bring unexpected opportunities. Is it ok to pray during an eclipse?
During a solar eclipse, it is advised that deities shouldn't be touched or worshiped. Even temple doors are usually closed during eclipses.
