ANJALI YADAV/Dehradun
The lunar eclipse on Tuesday saw many people in Dehradun following customs that have been part of their households for generations. As the portals of temples across the State were closed temporarily during the eclipse, believers observed varied practices at home on the occasion. The usually congested roads in the provisional State capital saw smooth flow of traffic as many avoided shopping.
In several homes, cooking was avoided during the eclipse. Some families placed Tulsi leaves in milk and other cooked food, while others chose not to eat or sleep till the end of the eclipse. Psychologist Bhagyalaxmi said that many believe that the eclipse period has negative effects and that food prepared during this time becomes impure. Pregnant women are also advised to stay indoors and avoid sharp objects, as traditional beliefs link eclipses to harm for unborn children. “However, scientists have repeatedly clarified that a lunar eclipse is not harmful. Unlike a solar eclipse, where looking directly at the sun without protection can damage the eyes due to strong ultraviolet and infrared radiation, a lunar eclipse does not produce any harmful rays,” she said. Experts opine that over time, scientific warnings related to solar eclipses may have merged with traditional beliefs, leading to similar restrictions during lunar eclipses as well.
Local resident Santosh Yadav said that the traditions give him comfort. “We have seen our parents follow these practices. It gives us peace of mind. Even if science says it is safe, we feel better following what we have been taught,” she said.
At the same time, younger people are beginning to question these practices. College student Gaurav Rathore said, “We understand that it is part of science. We respect traditions, but we don’t think something bad will happen,” he said.
