Surya Grahan Today: Surya Grahan Timings, Sutak Rules, and 9 Things You Should NOT Do During This Eclipse

The cosmos is shifting, and if you've felt a strange, electric tension in the air today, you're not alone. Today, February 17, 2026, we are witnessing a monumental celestial event: an Annular Solar Eclipse and New Moon in Aquarius. While the world watches the 'Ring of Fire' globally, here in India, spiritual enthusiasts and practitioners are bracing for the profound energetic shifts this 'Surya Grahan' brings. As a senior astrologer, I’ve seen many eclipses, but this one—occurring in the revolutionary sign of Aquarius—is a massive wake-up call for every zodiac sign. This isn't just about the Sun disappearing for a few minutes; it's about a deep psychological and spiritual 'Great Reset.'

The Aquarius Solar Eclipse: Why Today is Different

An Annular Solar Eclipse happens when the Moon is too far from Earth to completely cover the Sun, leaving a thin, brilliant ring of light—the 'Ring of Fire.' This year, the Aquarius Solar Eclipse Great Reset is highlighting our community, our technology, and our future visions. Because this eclipse is conjunct Mercury and Venus, it’s not just our identity (the Sun) that is being eclipsed, but also our communication and our relationships. If you've been feeling like you're living in a sci-fi movie lately, blame the Aquarius Stellium Peak.

Surya Grahan Timings (IST)

For those observing the spiritual protocols in India, the timing is critical. The New Moon and the peak of the eclipse occur approximately between 5:31 p.m. and 5:45 p.m. IST. Even though the full annular phase may not be visible across all of India, the 'Sutak' or the period of spiritual caution is still widely observed by many who follow traditional Vedic principles. This is because the 'Grahan' is considered a time of Rahu and Ketu’s dominance, where the life-giving rays of the Sun are obstructed, leading to a temporary surge in 'Tamasic' (heavy or chaotic) energy.

Understanding Sutak Rules: The Spiritual 'Filter'

In Vedic astrology, Sutak is the period of 'impurity' that precedes an eclipse. For a Solar Eclipse, it typically begins 12 hours before the start. During this time, the atmosphere is believed to be sensitive. While modern life often ignores these cycles, many find that following Sutak basics helps them avoid the 'brain fog' and erratic decision-making that often accompany eclipses.

9 Things You Should NOT Do During This Eclipse

To navigate this energy safely, here are 9 critical 'don'ts' that I advise my clients to follow:

1. Do Not Eat During Sutak: It is traditionally believed that food cooked or consumed during the eclipse absorbs negative vibrations. If you must eat, try to finish before the Sutak begins or use 'Kusha' grass or Tulsi leaves to protect stored food.
2. Avoid Temple Visits: During the peak (5:31–5:45 p.m. IST), most temples in India remain closed. The energy is meant for internal 'Japa' (chanting) rather than external ritual worship.
3. No Major Surgeries: Unless it is a life-saving emergency, elective surgeries are best avoided. The 'Prana' or life force is considered unstable during an eclipse, which can affect healing.
4. Avoid Big Investments: The weekly money forecast suggests a windfall for some, but 'signing' the papers today is a mistake. The 'light' of the Sun—which represents clarity—is blocked.
5. Don't Sign Deals or Contracts: Mercury is involved in this eclipse. Information is hidden. What you sign today may look very different once the eclipse shadow clears.
6. Avoid Starting New Ventures: This is a New Moon, which usually means 'new beginnings.' However, an eclipse New Moon is a 'Dark Moon.' It’s a time for planning, not launching.
7. Postpone Marriage or Engagement Events: Eclipses represent 'shadows' falling on the luminaries. It is not considered an auspicious 'Muhurta' for long-term bonding rituals.
8. Avoid Conception Attempts: Many cultures believe the energetic environment during an eclipse is too volatile for the delicate process of conception.
9. Do Not Look Directly at the Sun: Scientifically and spiritually, this is dangerous. Without proper solar filters, you risk permanent eye damage. Spiritually, looking at the 'afflicted' Sun is said to disturb the 'Sadhaka Pitta' in the mind.

What To Do Instead: The Path of Surrender

Instead of external action, use this window for internal growth. This is the ultimate time for Mantra Japa and Meditation. Because the veil between worlds is thin, your spiritual efforts are magnified a thousandfold. Stay indoors during the peak, and once the eclipse is over, take a ritual bath to cleanse your 'aura' from the heavy energy. Performing Daan (charity)—specifically donating sesame seeds, black clothes, or food to the needy—is highly recommended to mitigate any negative planetary effects.

Impact on Every Zodiac Sign

• Aries: This eclipse hits your 11th house of social circles. Expect a 'friendship detox.' Some people may exit your life to make room for your future self.
• Taurus: Career shifts are coming. Do not quit your job today, but pay attention to the reality check regarding your public status.
• Gemini: Your belief systems are crumbling. You’re realizing that the old way of thinking no longer fits the person you are becoming in 2026.
• Cancer: Financial and intimate bonds are under the spotlight. It’s a time to settle debts—both karmic and financial.
• Leo: Relationships are the focus. This eclipse occurs in your opposite sign. The love story you're in is about to change chapters.
• Virgo: Your health and daily routines need a total overhaul. Stop ignoring the 'glitches' in your physical body.
• Libra: Creative blocks are breaking. You might feel a sudden urge to express yourself in a way that feels 'weird' or 'unconventional.' Go with it.
• Scorpio: Home and family matters reach a peak. You might feel the need to re-ground your energy as your foundations shift.
• Sagittarius: Communication is key. Watch your words today; the Mercury in Aquarius downloads are intense but need careful filtering.
• Capricorn: Your values and finances are being redefined. You are moving away from traditional security toward something more 'innovative.'
• Aquarius: This is your eclipse. The Sun and Moon meet in your sign. This is a personal identity upgrade. You are the pioneer of the new age.
• Pisces: Your 12th house of the subconscious is activated. Dreams will be vivid. Trust your intuition but wait until the eclipse shadow begins to lift before acting.

The Final Word from Your Astrologer

Remember, an eclipse is a 'portal.' It closes doors that need to be shut so that new ones can open. If you feel lost today, don't panic. The universe is redirecting you. For a deeper look at how this year's transits will impact your specific destiny, consider getting a 12-month future prediction report or a personal horoscope report to navigate these turbulent cosmic waters with grace.

Stay calm, stay inward, and let the light of the 'Ring of Fire' burn away what no longer serves you.