Solar Eclipse 2020: ‘Ring of fire’ to be visible on Sunday, ‘Surya Grahan’ timings in India
The first solar eclipse of this year takes place on the summer solstice, which is the longest day in the Northern Hemisphere.
Slight morning drizzle and the day is soaked in fine showers. The sun is hidden, but with the mercury dipping, the weather this time is perfect for a warm summer solstice celebration indoors.
Summer solstice, the longest day of the year, falls on 21 June. On this day, the sun falls directly over the Tropic of Cancer. In 2017, 12.24 am Eastern Time marks the summer solstice. Beginning with this day, the Northern hemisphere will move closer to the sun as the earth tilts its axis. Most parts of the world will begin to get more sunlight, as the summer soltice declares midsummer.
Originated from the latin word 'solstitium', meaning 'sun standing still', thousands across the world celebrate the occasion. Wearing flowers in their hair and garlands, some feast and dance through the night around bonfire to the sound of music.
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There are stories of what happened during this time years ago. Pagans believe that fairies come out on the summer solstice and are most powerful during this time. Hence, the time and day when it occurs hold powerful significance to astrologers and many. And, there are many midsummer stories and dreams woven around it, and festivals and celebrations linked to it.
More than the belief, people today observe the pagan festival with great fervour and celebrations of life.
While the day is long, take a break from work and have fun with friends over great food and music.
While in Europe, summer solstice is celebrated in large gatherings around stone circles during sunrise, in India, celebrations on this day are just beginning to catch up in small groups and close gatherings.
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