Eclipses (grahan) in 2026 — New York

Sutak and grahan customs

In the Hindu tradition the period before an eclipse is called sutak. It begins 12 hours (4 prahars) before a solar eclipse and 9 hours (3 prahars) before a lunar eclipse, and only where the eclipse is visible. Many families avoid cooking and eating during sutak, keep tulsi leaves in stored food, chant or meditate during the eclipse, and bathe and give charity after it ends. Children, the elderly, the sick and pregnant women are traditionally exempt from the fasting rules.