what to do during surya grahan
Quick Scoop: During a surya grahan (solar eclipse), many people follow a simple set of precautions: avoid eating or cooking during the eclipse, stay indoors if possible, and bathe before and after the eclipse. If you follow traditional practices, people also often spend the time in prayer, mantra chanting, meditation, or charity.
What to do
- Take a bath before and after the eclipse.
- Chant mantras, pray, or meditate during the eclipse period.
- Keep food covered ; some traditions add tulsi leaves or kusha grass to stored food and water.
- Do charity or donate after the eclipse, which is considered especially auspicious in many traditions.
- Wait to eat until after bathing once the eclipse ends, in traditional observances.
What to avoid
- Avoid cooking and eating during the eclipse in traditional practice.
- Avoid touching idols or doing regular puja until after the eclipse and a cleansing bath.
- Avoid sleeping during the eclipse if you are following the stricter religious guidance some communities observe.
- Pregnant people are often advised in traditional sources to be extra cautious and follow family or local customs.
Simple home routine
- Finish food and water prep before the eclipse starts.
- Stay calm, indoors, and keep windows protected if you prefer.
- Use the time for prayer, chanting, or quiet reflection.
- Bathe after the eclipse ends.
- Eat fresh food afterward.
Important note
These are traditional and religious practices , not medical rules. For safe solar-eclipse viewing, use proper eclipse glasses or indirect viewing methods only.