Hindus in Allahabad take dip to ward off solar eclipse evil

Thousands of Hindus took a dip in the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and mythical Saraswati rivers here on Tuesday during solar eclipse to ward off evil effects of the rare celestial phenomenon.

Allahabad, Sept. 11 : Thousands of Hindus took a dip in the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and mythical Saraswati rivers here on Tuesday during solar eclipse to ward off "evil effects" of the rare celestial phenomenon.

Although the solar eclipse, that has often been associated with superstition, was not visible in India but believers still throng the rivers to take a dip in the river.

Devotees offered water to Sun God, as they believe prayers on this day help them attain salvation.

"Our Sun God is facing the eclipse today so the people are taking a holy dip, praying and doing charity to save him from the eclipse. Also it is believed that one attains salvation by taking holy dip during eclipse," said Gopalji, a devotee.

Hindus believe a dip in the holy Rivers during the eclipse saves them from the wrath of evil forces and brings prosperity in life.

Long before the dawn of knowledge, eclipses especially solar eclipses were considered bad omen. The thought still prevails in Indian society despite awareness about the phenomenon.

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes directly in front of the sun and its shadow is cast on earth.

ANI