Solar & Lunar eclipse

 सूर्यग्रहण और चंद्रग्रहण – Hindu Wisdom on Solar and Lunar Eclipses

 Introduction

In Hindu tradition, Grahaṇa (eclipse) is not merely a celestial phenomenon—it is a cosmic event charged with deep spiritual, astrological, and karmic significance. Both Sūrya Grahaṇa (solar eclipse) and Chandra Grahaṇa (lunar eclipse) are described in the Panchang, Jyotisha Shastra, and Purāṇas with detailed do’s and don’ts, remedies, and spiritual meanings.

These events are marked as times of spiritual alertness, ritual purity, and cosmic transition. Let us explore their meaning from both astrological and astronomical viewpoints.

 सूर्यग्रहण (Solar Eclipse)

 Astronomical Meaning:

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, casting its shadow on the Earth and partially or fully blocking the sunlight.

There are three types of solar eclipses:
• Total – Sun completely covered
• Partial – Part of the Sun covered
• Annular – Sun appears as a ring

 Astrological Significance:
• Happens during Amāvasyā (New Moon) when Sun and Moon are conjunct in the same zodiac sign.
• It is considered inauspicious for worldly and material activities.
• It energizes spiritual practices, austerities, and inner reflection.
• Rahu or Ketu must be in conjunction for the eclipse to occur.

 चंद्रग्रहण (Lunar Eclipse)

 Astronomical Meaning:

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon, and Earth’s shadow falls on the Moon.

Three types:
• Total lunar eclipse
• Partial lunar eclipse
• Penumbral eclipse

 Astrological Significance:
• Always occurs on Purnimā (Full Moon).
• Rahu or Ketu must be in opposition to the Sun and Moon for an eclipse.
• Affects mental peace, emotions, and health.
• Offers an ideal time for mantra japa, tapas, and remedial worship.

 Panchang-Based Rules During Eclipse (Grahaṇa Kāla Dharma)

According to Dharmashastra and Panchang, the following rules and rituals are advised:

 Sutaka (सूतक) Period:
• Starts 12 hours before a solar eclipse and 9 hours before a lunar eclipse.
• During Sutaka:
• No food should be consumed
• Puja, yajña, and temple visits are avoided
• Pregnant women must stay indoors (to avoid harmful rays and vibrations)

 During the Eclipse:
• Chanting of Gayatri Mantra, Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, Vishnu Sahasranama
• Best time for mantra siddhi, dhyana, japa, and prayer
• Avoid cooking, sleeping, sexual activity, or mundane tasks

 After the Eclipse (Shuddhi):
• Take a holy bath (snāna) immediately after grahaṇa ends
• Change clothes, clean puja items
• Perform dāna (charity) to Brāhmaṇas—especially til, vastra, gau-dāna
• Resume normal activities after Panchang-specified Shuddhi time

 Effects According to Astrology (Zodiac-Wise Grahaṇa Phala)

The effects of an eclipse depend on:
• Zodiac sign in which the eclipse occurs
• Natal Moon/Rāśi and Lagna of the individual
• Whether eclipse is visible in your location

 General Grahaṇa Phala by Rāśi:

Note: Personalized remedies must be prescribed by an experienced astrologer as per one’s Janmakundli.

 Spiritual Importance of Eclipse in Hindu Tradition
• Considered a time when divine energies become accessible
• Ideal for śānti karma, graha shānti, pitṛ tarpaṇa
• Mentioned in Śrīmad Bhāgavatam, Matsya Purāṇa, Skanda Purāṇa

“ग्रहणकाले स्नानं दानं जपं च महाफलम्।”
– Skanda Purāṇa

Translation: “At the time of an eclipse, bath, charity, and chanting yield immense merit.”

 Vedic Remedies During Eclipse

For those affected by Grahaṇa doṣa or planetary problems:

 Graha Shānti Homa (for Sun, Moon, Rahu, Ketu)
 Sūrya or Chandra mantra japa
 Donation of white cloth, black sesame, silver, milk
 Worship of Lord Shiva, Vishnu, or Goddess Durga

 Conclusion

Eclipses are powerful cosmic events, offering both challenges and opportunities. Through the Hindu Panchang, Vedic Jyotisha, and Purāṇic teachings, we learn that Grahaṇas are not to be feared, but understood and respected.

By observing dharmic rules, engaging in purification, and performing spiritual practices, we can turn these intense periods into moments of inner elevation.

 For personalized Grahaṇa remedies, muhurta, and astrological guidance as per Vedic Panchang, contact:

Pandit Tapan Kumar Panda