Surya Grahan 17 Feb 2026: Phalguna Amavasya, Solar Eclipse on same day; check timings, significance, do’s and don’ts

Phalguna Amavasya, a significant day for honoring ancestors in Hinduism, will be observed on February 17, 2026. This year, the occasion is made more notable by the occurrence of a solar eclipse on the same day.

The Amavasya, or New Moon day, falls monthly and holds deep religious and spiritual importance for Hindus. Devotees typically offer prayers to their ancestors and engage in various religious practices.

Phalguna Amavasya will begin on February 16, 2026, at 5:34 PM and conclude on February 17, 2026, at 5:30 PM.

Surya Grahan Significance

This day is dedicated to the worship of ancestors and forefathers. Many people visit riverbanks, such as the Ganga ghats, for a holy dip, which is considered meritorious. Rituals like pitru puja and pitru tarpan are performed, and lamps are lit under peepal trees. Hawan ceremonies are also conducted for pitru shanti, or peace for ancestors. Charity is encouraged on this day, which is seen as a time for spiritual purification.

Solar Eclipse on Phalguna Amavasya

This year's Phalguna Amavasya is unique as it coincides with a solar eclipse. While the eclipse will not be visible in India, certain guidelines are recommended for observance.

- Charity should be performed on this day.
- Feeding people and animals is advised.
- It is recommended to avoid eating and sleeping during the time of the eclipse.
- Activities such as purchasing new items, attending interviews, housewarmings (grah pravesh), and haircuts (mundan) should be avoided.

Surya Grahan Rituals and Observances

The primary focus of Amavasya is ancestor worship. Rituals include waking early and taking a holy bath. Many devotees visit riverbanks for a sacred bath. The day is considered auspicious for charity and making donations. Priests and Brahmins are often invited to perform pitru tarpan or pitru puja. Worshipping cows and offering them the first chapati is also a significant practice on this powerful day.

Surya Grahan Do's and Don'ts

- Avoid purchasing clothes and shoes.
- Refrain from consuming tamasik food.
- Avoid engaging in tamasik activities.
- Feed cows, ants, and crows.
- Taking a holy dip in the Ganga river is advised. If not possible, adding a few drops of Ganga water to bathing water is an alternative.
- Offering the first chapati to a cow is considered meritorious.