Hyderabad: On 10 October, the solar eclipse was viewed across the world between 2:28 p.m and 6:32 p.m (Indian Standard Time). In Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, the eclipse started around 4:50 p.m and lasted till 5:10 pm.
In Hyderabad, people witnessed the eclipse from 4:59 p.m and continued to get a glimpse till 5:48 p.m, i.e, till sunset. However, the solar eclipse continued till 6:32 p.m.
Meanwhile, in some communities, people fasted for the entire day. As per belief, they continue to fast even after the eclipse. Only elderly people and those with serious health conditions can avoid fasting.
In some communities, pregnant women are not permitted to move out of their homes as they believe that the eclipse can cause deformities in the womb.
According to sources, people did not step out of their homes as Amavasya also fell on the same day and a combination of Amavasya and solar eclipse is considered a bad omen. Shops also remained closed in some parts of the city.
The next solar eclipse will occur on 2 August 2027.
Cover pic credits: Amrutha Kosuru