Fact Check
Don’t Be Misled: No Surya Grahan Will Occur on 2 August 2025
In recent days, several social media platforms have been flooded with claims that a Surya Grahan (solar eclipse) will occur on August 2, 2025, and that it will have major spiritual and scientific implications. Some posts even went viral with fake graphics, “scientific alerts,” and pseudo-astrological predictions.
The messages triggered anxiety and confusion among astrology enthusiasts, religious observers, and curious citizens. However, the truth is quite the opposite — no solar eclipse will occur on August 2, 2025, according to both government agencies and international astronomical data.
What the Rumors Claimed
The fake viral posts claimed:
- A rare solar eclipse would occur on 2 August 2025.
- It would be visible in India and affect daily life.
- Pregnant women should stay indoors during the eclipse.
- “Astrological changes” would occur due to planetary alignments.
These messages were mostly circulated through WhatsApp forwards, Facebook posts, YouTube videos, and some astrology websites with no scientific credibility.
PIB Fact Check: The Official Truth
The Indian government’s PIB Fact Check unit — the official body for countering fake news and misinformation — took swift action and issued a public clarification: A viral message claiming that a Surya Grahan (Solar Eclipse) will occur on 2 August 2025 is misleading and fake. No solar eclipse will occur on that day anywhere in the world.
This statement aligns with astronomical records from global observatories and organizations like NASA and TimeandDate.com, which maintain verified eclipse calendars.
No Eclipse in August 2025 – Here’s What the Experts Say
According to NASA’s official eclipse calendar, the next solar eclipses around that time are:
- March 29, 2025 – A partial solar eclipse, visible from parts of India, Europe, and Asia.
- September 21, 2025 – A total solar eclipse, visible mainly from the Southern Hemisphere (not India).
So, there is no record or prediction of any solar eclipse on August 2, 2025, anywhere in the world.
Why These False Claims Matter
Eclipses have long been tied to myths, rituals, and religious practices in India. Claims about eclipses can influence people’s behaviors — from skipping meals to avoiding going outdoors. In some cases, these rumors:
- Spread fear among pregnant women and the elderly.
- Cause disruption in daily life based on unverified “sutak” periods.
- Drive people toward pseudoscientific beliefs and false rituals.
This highlights why such misinformation must be corrected — and why credible sources must be promoted.
Impact of Such Rumors in India
Historically, eclipse-related rumors have had significant cultural and social consequences in India:
- Schools and temples often shut down based on misinformation.
- Businesses and events are postponed due to eclipse superstitions.
- People skip medications, fasting based on unauthenticated timings.
- Many consult astrologers before making financial or personal decisions during such times.
In this digital age, the reach and speed of false information are greater than ever. That’s why fact-checking and public awareness are essential.
How to Spot Fake Eclipse News
Here are 5 quick tips to verify eclipse-related information:
- Check NASA’s Eclipse Calendar – Official and updated regularly:
- Use TimeandDate.com – Offers detailed local and global visibility data.
- Follow ISRO and Vigyan Prasar – For scientific updates from Indian institutions.
- Avoid chain messages – Most viral WhatsApp forwards are hoaxes.
- Fact Check via PIB – Follow on X (Twitter).