By Sakshi Arora

Copyright timesnownews

After the Blood Moon lunar eclipse earlier this month, get ready for another celestial phenomenon, the final solar eclipse of 2025, taking place on Sunday, September 21. This one is a partial solar eclipse, but unlike certain countries in the Southern Hemisphere where it will be visible, people in Asia, Africa, Europe, and most of the Americas will completely miss the spectacle. That includes India, where the eclipse will not be visible in the skies. But here’s the question many are asking: if the eclipse is not visible in India, does it still affect people here? Can a Solar Eclipse Affect You Even If It’s Not Visible? In astronomy, eclipses are purely natural events, the result of the Moon passing between the Earth and the Sun. If you are in a region outside the eclipse path, you won’t see or experience any physical impact. However, in Vedic astrology and Indian tradition, the eclipse is not only about visibility. Many astrologers believe that the cosmic alignments during an eclipse still influence life on Earth, regardless of geography. The Sun, Moon, and Earth align in a way that disrupts normal energy flows, which is said to affect individuals based on their zodiac signs and personal birth charts. That said, astrologers do suggest that the influence is stronger and more direct for people living in regions where the eclipse shadow actually falls. For others, the effects may be subtle but not entirely absent. Connection With Pitru Paksha (Shraadh) Interestingly, this solar eclipse also coincides with the last day of Pitru Paksha (Shraadh) in India, the fortnight dedicated to remembering, honouring, and offering prayers to ancestors. Traditionally, many households perform rituals, feed Brahmins, or donate food during this period as an act of gratitude. The timing makes this eclipse particularly significant from a spiritual perspective. Many believe that an eclipse window is an ideal period to withdraw from worldly distractions, fast, meditate, chant mantras, or simply sit quietly in silence. Disconnecting from music, entertainment, or unnecessary stimulation is said to help deepen spiritual energy. Some astrologers suggest that eclipses, visible or not can bring shifts in various areas of life, including career, relationships, family planning or major life changes. They are considered cosmic nudges to pause, release what no longer serves you, and prepare for fresh beginnings. ALSO READ: What Is So Rare About This Solar Eclipse And Will It Be Visible In India? Which Zodiac Signs Will Be Impacted by Solar Eclipse 2025? This partial solar eclipse is expected to influence people with strong placements in Taurus, Cancer, and Pisces. If your Sun, Moon, or major planets fall in these signs, you may notice changes in your emotional landscape or personal relationships. For some, this could mean romantic developments, sparks in dating life, or emotional revelations. For others, it may bring an urge to rethink commitments, reassess personal goals, or let go of toxic patterns. What Time Is the Solar Eclipse on 21 September 2025? Even though the eclipse is not visible in India, people still observe the timings carefully due to traditional beliefs. Here are the exact timings in IST: Start: 10:59 PM IST, 21 September 2025 Maximum Peak: 1:11 AM IST, 22 September 2025 End: 3:23 AM IST, 22 September 2025 Dos and Don’ts During Solar Eclipse Ancient texts and traditional practices in India prescribe certain dos and don’ts for any eclipse, visible or not. Here are some guidelines commonly followed: Dos:Spend the eclipse period in spiritual practices – meditation, chanting, journaling, or prayer.Use the time for introspection and reflection rather than action.Finish meals at least two hours before the eclipse begins. Eat light, sattvic food.On the following day, consume only freshly cooked food and avoid leftovers.Treat the eclipse as an opportunity to release negativity and gently reset. Don’ts:Do not make big decisions or life-changing manifestations during the eclipse. Wait for clarity afterward.Avoid neglecting your health, routines, and self-care practices. Disruptions during eclipses are believed to have long-term consequences.Do not force relationships or try to control situations, eclipses are considered times of surrender, not control.Avoid eating during the eclipse hours.Refrain from using sharp objects during the eclipse, as per traditional belief. What Is a Partial Solar Eclipse? A solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking sunlight either fully or partially. The type of eclipse depends on the alignment – Total Eclipse: The Moon completely covers the Sun; Annular Eclipse: The Moon is slightly smaller in the sky, leaving a “ring of fire”; Hybrid Eclipse: A rare mix of total and annular depending on location. Partial Eclipse is when the Moon covers only part of the Sun. On 21 September 2025, the Moon will only obscure a portion of the Sun, making it appear as though a “bite” has been taken out of it, creating the partial eclipse effect. In summary, while the September 21 partial solar eclipse will not be visible in India, many people here may still observe traditional practices around it. Whether you view it as a purely astronomical event or one with deeper spiritual and astrological meaning, eclipses are often regarded as powerful moments to pause, reflect, and realign your inner energies.