Asian fear and wonder at eclipse Wonder mixed with traditional fears for many in India Thousands of people in India carried out sacred rituals as the eclipse passed over South Asia, while others ignored traditional fears to witness a unique wonder of nature. Hours before the eclipse touched the sub-continent, devout Hindus were flocking to the holy city of Kurukshetra to take a ritual bath in two sacred lakes. People were also reported to be gathering at holy sites along the River Ganges. According to Hindu mythology, the eclipse represents the demons Rahu and Keta locked in celestial combat and eating the Sun.
Some texts say the eclipse presages widespread destruction.
The authorities made a concerted effort to dispel some of the myths, organising special lectures in schools and colleges across India. But even in the commercial capital, Bombay, offices and shops closed early as working during the eclipse is considered bad luck. Pregnant women and children are discouraged from seeing the eclipse, and conservative families across India refrained even from cooking food on the day of the eclipse. We have closed up our kitchens. Despite cloudy weather and traditional fears, large numbers of scientists, amateur stargazers and tourists took up position in towns and villages to watch the eclipse.