Sutak

The inauspicious period before a Surya Grahan (solar eclipse) or Chandra Grahan (lunar eclipse) is known as Sutak. According to Hindu beliefs, the Earth’s atmosphere becomes contaminated during this time, and extra precautions should be taken to avoid its harmful effects.

Sutak is observed for 4 Prahars before a Solar Eclipse and 3 Prahars before a Lunar Eclipse. Since there are 8 Prahars from one sunrise to the next, this works out to 12 hours before a Solar Eclipse and 9 hours before a Lunar Eclipse.

Sutak is observed only if the eclipse is actually visible at the place in question.

All food, whether solid or liquid, is prohibited during Sutak and the eclipse itself — meaning no eating for 12 hours before a Solar Eclipse or 9 hours before a Lunar Eclipse, until the eclipse ends. For children, the sick, and the elderly, this restriction is relaxed to a single Prahar (about 3 hours).

Pregnant women are strictly advised not to step outside during an eclipse. It is believed that the contamination and malefic influence of Rahu and Ketu during this time can harm the unborn child — potentially causing disability or increasing the risk of miscarriage. Pregnant women are also advised against cutting or stitching cloth, or engaging in similar activities, as these are believed to affect the baby in the same way.

Oil massage, drinking water, urination/defecation, combing hair, brushing teeth, and sexual activity are all prohibited during an eclipse.

Any food cooked before the eclipse should be discarded, and only freshly prepared food eaten afterward. Items that can’t easily be discarded — such as wheat, rice, other grains, and pickles — should be protected by placing Kusha grass or Tulasi leaves in them. Once the eclipse ends, one should bathe and make offerings or donations to Brahmins, which are considered especially beneficial at this time.