Annular Solar Eclipse: Myths, Do’s & Don’ts

The year 2020 will be jotted down in history as a remembrance year, as it really packs a wallop in every term. The summer solstice will be witnessed on the longest day in the year, June 21.

Around the world, there are many superstitions and myths associated with the eclipse. With the n-number of superstitions and myths, it is difficult to believe in one. The myths and superstitions vary from country to country, and people are left with an n-number of thoughts, which results in denial to believe in any of it.

According to Hindu Mythology, an eclipse is considered to be an inauspicious event, as the disappearance of the sun even for a short duration of time is contemplated as ‘unhealthy.’ Some belief, deleterious entities emerge in the course of an eclipse, and it advises people to follow certain sets of rules and regulations.

Since a long duration of time, the science and the scientist have tried to give a different definition to explain the occurrence of the natural phenomena. However, it is people's belief to follow traditional rituals.

Touching and worshipping idols of gods are strictly prohibited in the duration of an eclipse.

During the eclipse, the temple doors are generally closed and are only opened after the eclipse.

After the termination of the eclipse, the idols of the god are washed with the holy water of Ganga to purify them.

Chanting hymns, singing devotional songs or meditating during the eclipse will protect one from the evil effects.

It also prohibits one from sleeping, urination, defecating, putting on makeup or having sexual intercourse during an eclipse.

It is considered that the pregnant women are weakest during an eclipse and hence are an easy target for evil forces. The pregnant women are forbidden from handling sharp objects, and it is also believed that one shouldn’t be sitting with their legs crossed.

Lastly, it is instructed to the people to take a bath and change into clean clothes to get rid of whatever was there during an eclipse. Taking a dip in Ganga river or sprinkling the water on oneself will be away from all the evil as believed by many.

With a wide variety of superstitions and myths, one needs to take precautions during the annular solar eclipse.

Do’s during a solar eclipse

Even during usual days, it is counselled that one shouldn’t stare directly at the Sun. As stated by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, when there is a solar eclipse one should use special-purpose solar filters or ‘eclipse glasses’ to protect their eyes.

Wielding homemade filters or darkest sunglasses while having a glance at the sun is not safe, as they don’t provide the shield required and will transmit far too much sunlight and resulting in damage to eyes.

NASA recommends prior shielding of the eyes should be done before gazing at an eclipse. Also, one should only remove the glasses if they have completely looked away or when the phenomena are over and not before it.

Don’ts during the solar eclipse

Driving during a solar eclipse isn’t advisable. As per the American Automobile Association (AAA), people should drive with their headlights on and should safely park their vehicles.

AAA advises drivers should keep some additional space between cars and account for the fact they’ll be driving slower on the day.

On June 21, one will witness a new phase for a duration of time. The ‘Ring of Fire’ will bestow the sky with its glance, but one should always keep in mind the safety measures.