Bhubaneswar: Year 2020’s first solar eclipse popularly known as the ‘ring of fire eclipse’ will take place on June 21. A solar eclipse takes place when the Moon comes in between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun’s rays from reaching the Earth.
It will start at 9:15 am and last till 3.04 p.m (IST) in India. However, it is widely believed that the Solar eclipse can have some negative effects on human health. While some of the beliefs are backed by science others are mere beliefs. According to Samanta Panjika and Berhampur based astrologer Pramod Kumar Mohapatra, here are the fee do’s and don’ts one should follow during the solar eclipse.
1. One should not do worship or touch gods as it is strictly prohibited during this period. Even temple doors usually stay closed during eclipses. It is the practice that once the eclipse ends, the idols are washed with Ganga water to purify them.
2. No food should be taken and the stomach should be kept empty during the eclipse as there may be negative effects in the digestive system of human being.
3. Tulsi leaf which is considered as a holy plant in Hinduism or “Kusa” ( one type of holy grass ) are generally put on cooked food and in the Puja room during eclipse to avoid the negative effects of eclipse as these items have power to fight against different bacterias and germs.
4. Sleeping, urination, defecation, sexual intercourse are also prohibited during the eclipse.
5. Pregnant woman should not go outside during eclipse. According to Hindu mythology, it may be harmful to her and the baby.
6. Try to avoid watching solar eclipse directly with naked eyes as it can damage one’s retina and in the worst case, it can even lead to blindness. Wear sunglasses if you want to see it.
7. After the eclipse is over, people are directed to take a bath and change into fresh and clean clothes.
8. If sacred Ganga water is available, it can be sprinkled in the home.
Remember, not all of these beliefs are true. These are beliefs in Hinduism. The only thing which is true is that you must not see the eclipse with your naked eyes.