Surya Grahan 2026 in India: When Is the Next Longest Total Solar Eclipse of the Year? Know Date And Timing

Surya Grahan 2026: The second solar eclipse of 2026 in India is already drawing major attention online, with many people searching for its exact date, timing and visibility details. According to astronomical calendars, there will be two solar eclipses in 2026. The first solar eclipse took place on February 17, while the second and final solar eclipse of the year is scheduled for August.

Apart from its scientific importance, a solar eclipse, or Surya Grahan, also holds strong religious and astrological significance in India. Many people follow traditional beliefs related to eclipses, including avoiding auspicious activities and religious rituals during the event.

When Will the Second Solar Eclipse of 2026 Take Place?

The second solar eclipse of the year will occur on August 12, 2026, coinciding with Shravan Amavasya. According to the timings currently available, the eclipse will begin at 9:04 pm on August 12 and continue until 4:25 am on August 13. The solar eclipse will last for 7 hours and 21 minutes in total.

Astronomers have classified this eclipse as an annular solar eclipse. During an annular eclipse, the Moon passes in front of the Sun but does not completely cover it, leaving a bright ring-like outline visible around the Moon.

Astrological calculations suggest that the eclipse will occur in the Cancer zodiac sign and Ashlesha Nakshatra.

Where Will the Solar Eclipse Be Visible?

The August 2026 solar eclipse will not be visible from India. However, it is expected to be visible across several parts of the world, including Canada, Greenland, Iceland, northern regions of Spain, northeastern areas of Russia, parts of northwestern Africa, the Atlantic Ocean region, France, United Kingdom and several European countries including Italy.

Skywatchers in these regions may be able to witness the annular eclipse directly, depending on local weather conditions.

Will Sutak Kaal Be Observed in India?

According to Hindu religious beliefs, Sutak Kaal is generally observed before a solar eclipse. During this period, many people avoid worship, cooking, travelling and other auspicious activities.

However, astrologers say Sutak Kaal will not apply in India for the August 12 solar eclipse because the eclipse will not be visible in the country. Religious traditions state that Sutak is considered valid only in places where the eclipse can actually be seen.

As a result, temples are expected to remain open and there will likely be no restrictions on religious or auspicious activities in India during the eclipse period.

How Can Indians Watch the Eclipse?

Although the eclipse will not be visible physically from India, people can still watch it online through livestreams. Organisations such as NASA and astronomy websites like Time and Date are expected to stream the eclipse live on their official platforms and YouTube channels.

The second solar eclipse of 2026 is expected to become a major event for astronomy enthusiasts and those interested in religious and astrological traditions alike.