Solar Eclipse And Mahalaya Mark Auspicious September Transition

Partial Solar Eclipse on September 21, 2025

On September 21, 2025, the world witnessed a partial solar eclipse, though the event was not visible in India. Despite the absence of physical visibility, many Indians followed traditional practices associated with eclipses.

According to Indian Standard Time (IST), the eclipse began at 10:59 PM on September 21, reached its maximum phase at 1:11 AM on September 22, and concluded at 3:23 AM. Since the phenomenon was not visible across India, the Sutak Kaal (the inauspicious period usually observed before an eclipse) was not applicable. Still, devotees observed spiritual customs to align with traditional beliefs.

Dos During the Eclipse

Even though Sutak was not observed, spiritual and religious practices during the eclipse carried deep significance:

  • Chant mantras and meditate: The period of an eclipse is considered favorable for introspection, chanting sacred mantras, and meditation.

  • Read scriptures: Devotees read texts like the Hanuman Chalisa, Sunderkand, or Bhagavad Gita for spiritual upliftment.

  • Protect food and water: Adding Tulsi leaves or kusha grass to stored food and water was recommended to guard against negative influences.

  • Take a purifying bath: After the eclipse ended, taking a bath, preferably with Gangajal mixed in water, was customary to cleanse oneself.

  • Cleanse surroundings: Sprinkling Gangajal in the home symbolized purification.

  • Make donations: Giving food, clothes, or essentials to the needy after the eclipse was believed to invite divine blessings.

Don’ts During the Eclipse

Alongside the recommended practices, traditions advised avoiding certain activities during the eclipse:

  • No cooking or eating: Cooking and eating food during the eclipse were traditionally avoided, except for children, elderly, and the sick.

  • Avoid sharp objects: Use of scissors, knives, or needles was discouraged.

  • No auspicious events: Weddings, new ventures, or sacred ceremonies were postponed.

  • Do not touch idols: Contact with gods’ idols or sacred plants like Tulsi was avoided.

  • Precautions for pregnant women: Expectant mothers were advised to stay indoors, refrain from using sharp objects, and remain calm for the well-being of the unborn child.

Mahalaya: A Sacred Transition in Hindu Calendar

Interestingly, September 21, 2025, also marked Mahalaya, one of the most sacred days in the Hindu calendar. Mahalaya is observed as the conclusion of Pitru Paksha—a 16-day period dedicated to honoring ancestors—and the beginning of Devi Paksha, which culminates in Durga Puja.

For Hindus, especially Bengalis, Mahalaya is the symbolic arrival of Goddess Durga to earth. It is believed that she descends from Mount Kailash with her children to her maternal home, preparing to slay the demon king Mahishasura. This marks the beginning of festivities that celebrate the victory of good over evil.

Honoring Ancestors on Mahalaya

Mahalaya is also observed as Sarva Pitru Amavasya, the most important day to pay respects to ancestors. Devotees perform Pitru Tarpan—the offering of water mixed with sesame seeds—praying for the peace and liberation of departed souls.

Rituals are ideally performed near rivers or water bodies, though many observe them at home. Facing south, devotees pour water with sesame seeds while chanting mantras like “Om Aagachhantu Me Pitarah Sarve, Grihantu JalaanJalim.” Offerings are made three times for paternal ancestors and once for maternal ancestors. Concluding prayers seek blessings for prosperity and forgiveness for any errors.

After rituals, offerings are immersed in water or placed beneath a sacred Peepal tree. Feeding the needy, cows, and birds is considered especially auspicious.

Reflection on a Unique Spiritual Day

The coincidence of Surya Grahan and Mahalaya on the same date in 2025 added unique spiritual depth. While the eclipse brought moments of silence, introspection, and traditional observances, Mahalaya marked hope, renewal, and the ceremonial beginning of Durga Puja.

Together, they emphasized two eternal aspects of Hindu tradition—honoring ancestors through humility and devotion, and welcoming the divine mother, symbolizing strength and victory of righteousness.

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