Annular Solar Eclipse — 17 February 2026
वलयाकार सूर्य ग्रहण — Tuesday, 17 February 2026
An annular solar eclipse occurs when the Moon is slightly farther from Earth and cannot fully cover the Sun, creating a brilliant 'Ring of Fire' effect. This eclipse was visible only from Antarctica and parts of the South Atlantic — it was not visible from India, so no Sutak Kaal was observed.
Eclipse Phase Timeline (ग्रहण चरण समयरेखा)
🌍 Where is this Eclipse Visible?
Antarctica, South Atlantic, Southern Africa (partial)
अंटार्कटिका, दक्षिण अटलांटिक, दक्षिण अफ्रीका (आंशिक)
Sutak Kaal: Not applicable — this eclipse is not visible from India. Hindu traditions require Sutak observance only when the eclipse is visible at your location.
सूतक काल: लागू नहीं — यह ग्रहण भारत से दृश्यमान नहीं है।
Mantras for Surya Grahan (सूर्य ग्रहण मंत्र)
✅ Do's
• Take a bath after the eclipse ends (Grahan Snan)
ग्रहण समाप्ति के बाद स्नान करें (ग्रहण स्नान)
• Chant mantras — Gayatri, Mahamrityunjaya, or Rahu mantra
मंत्र जपें — गायत्री, महामृत्युंजय, या राहु मंत्र
• Donate food, clothes, or essentials after the eclipse
ग्रहण के बाद भोजन, कपड़े या आवश्यक वस्तुएँ दान करें
• Sprinkle Ganga Jal in the house after Grahan ends
ग्रहण के बाद घर में गंगा जल छिड़कें
• Pregnant women should rest in a clean room during Sutak
गर्भवती महिलाएँ सूतक के दौरान स्वच्छ कमरे में आराम करें
• Add Tulsi (holy basil) to stored food and water before eclipse
ग्रहण से पहले संग्रहित भोजन और पानी में तुलसी डालें
❌ Don'ts
• Do not eat or drink during Sutak Kaal (except water for the sick)
सूतक काल में खाना-पीना न करें (बीमारों को पानी छोड़कर)
• Do not start any new work or sign contracts during eclipse
ग्रहण के दौरान कोई नया काम शुरू न करें या अनुबंध न करें
• Do not look at the eclipse with naked eyes (solar eclipse)
नंगी आँखों से ग्रहण न देखें (सूर्य ग्रहण)
• Do not sleep during the eclipse period
ग्रहण काल में सोएँ नहीं
• Do not cook food during Sutak — consume pre-prepared food
सूतक में खाना न पकाएँ — पहले से बना भोजन खाएँ
• Do not touch idols or Tulsi plant during eclipse
ग्रहण के दौरान मूर्तियों या तुलसी के पौधे को स्पर्श न करें
Effects on 12 Rashis (राशिफल पर प्रभाव)
This eclipse occurs in Kumbh (कुम्भ) Rashi — natives of this sign and the opposite sign are most affected.
Eclipse energy pushes career transformation. Avoid impulsive decisions. Chant Surya or Chandra mantra.
Financial matters need caution. Pending investments should wait. Good time for spiritual practice.
Communication and relationships face temporary turbulence. Avoid starting new partnerships.
Health requires attention during eclipse period. Rest well. Donate white items for Chandra Grahan.
Solar eclipses directly impact Leo natives. Self-identity undergoes transformation. Practice patience.
Lunar eclipse in Kanya brings emotional clarity after confusion. Career changes ahead. Stay grounded.
Hidden matters may surface. Good for resolving old disputes. Avoid travel during Sutak period.
Transformation energy is strongest for Scorpio. Release what no longer serves you. Deep meditation recommended.
Educational and spiritual pursuits face delays. Guru-related matters need patience. Study scriptures.
Professional life sees restructuring. Authority figures may change. Focus on long-term planning.
Solar eclipse in Kumbh (Feb) directly affects Aquarius. Major life shifts possible. Embrace change mindfully.
Lunar eclipse in Meen (Aug) brings emotional release. Creative energy surges. Practice water-based rituals.
Understanding Solar Eclipses (सूर्य ग्रहण)
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, casting a shadow on Earth. In Vedic astrology, this event is called Surya Grahan and is associated with Rahu swallowing the Sun. There are three types: Total (Moon fully covers the Sun), Annular (Moon is farther away, creating a ring of fire), and Partial (only part of the Sun is covered).
Eye Safety: Never look directly at a solar eclipse without proper ISO-certified eclipse glasses or a pinhole projector. Regular sunglasses are NOT safe for eclipse viewing. Looking at the Sun during an eclipse can cause permanent eye damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Annular Solar Eclipse?
The Annular Solar Eclipse occurred on Tuesday, 17 February 2026. Maximum eclipse is at 17:31 IST (12:01 UTC).
Is the Annular Solar Eclipse visible in India?
No, this eclipse is not visible from India. It is visible from Antarctica, South Atlantic, Southern Africa (partial). Since it is not visible in India, Sutak Kaal does not apply.
What is the Sutak Kaal for this eclipse?
Sutak Kaal does not apply for this eclipse because it is not visible from India. Sutak restrictions are observed only when the eclipse is visible at your location.
In which Rashi does this eclipse occur?
This eclipse occurs in Kumbh (कुम्भ) Rashi at 28°50'. In Western astrology, this corresponds to Aquarius.