Surya Grahan – Everything You Need to Know

India is buzzing about the upcoming Surya Grahan, and you probably have a few questions. When will it happen? How can you watch it without hurting your eyes? Which places will see the best view? We’ve gathered all the key facts in plain language so you can enjoy the event without the guesswork.

When and Where to See the Eclipse

The next major solar eclipse that will be visible across most of India is slated for October 2, 2025. It will be a partial eclipse for most of the country, with the northern states getting up to 70% coverage. The highest coverage – around 90% – will be in the central and western regions like Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and parts of Rajasthan.

If you live in Delhi, you’ll see roughly 65% of the Sun covered, which is still impressive. In the eastern belt (Bihar, West Bengal) the coverage drops to about 55%. Coastal areas such as Mumbai and Chennai will experience a thinner slice, but the event will still be noticeable.

Timing is also important. The eclipse will start around 09:45 AM IST and reach its maximum coverage at 11:30 AM IST. The whole event will finish by 13:15 PM IST. Mark your calendars and set an alarm – you don’t want to miss the peak.

How to Watch Safely

Staring directly at the Sun, even during an eclipse, can damage your retinas permanently. The safest way to watch is with a certified solar filter. Look for glasses that say “ISO 12312‑2” on the label – those are tested for eclipse viewing.

If you don’t have glasses, you can make a simple pinhole projector. Take a piece of cardboard, poke a tiny hole with a needle, and let the Sun’s light pass through onto a white surface. The projected image will show the crescent shape of the Sun as the eclipse progresses.

Another option is a solar viewing telescope or binoculars fitted with a proper solar filter. Never use ordinary sunglasses, smoked glass, or photographic negatives – they don’t block enough harmful rays.

For kids, it helps to supervise them closely and explain why filters are a must. Turn the eclipse into a fun learning moment: discuss how the Moon’s shadow moves across Earth and why we only get a few eclipses each year.

Remember to stop using any viewing device the moment the Sun becomes fully visible again. The bright light returns quickly, and your eyes need protection the whole time.

Beyond safety, think about capturing the moment. A smartphone on a tripod can record a timelapse of the eclipse, but keep the filter on the lens at all times. If you’re into photography, a DSLR with a solar filter will give you stunning shots of the Sun’s corona during the peak.

Lastly, stay updated. Weather can change fast, especially during the monsoon season. Check local forecasts a day before the event and be ready to move to a clearer spot if needed. Community groups often share live streams, so you won’t miss out even if clouds roll in.

Surya Grahan is a spectacular reminder of how our planet, Moon, and Sun interact. With the right timing, location, and safety gear, you’ll get to enjoy a celestial show that most people only see a few times in a lifetime. Grab your glasses, set your alarms, and get ready for a memorable sky‑watching day.