Partial solar eclipse in India

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth so that the Sun is wholly or partially obscured. This can only happen during a new moon, when the Sun and Moon are in conjunction as seen from the Earth. At least two and up to five solar eclipses occur each year on Earth, with between zero and two of them being total eclipses.[citation needed] Total solar eclipses are nevertheless rare at any location because during each eclipse totality exists only along a narrow corridor in the relatively tiny area of the Moon's umbra.
A total solar eclipse is a spectacular natural phenomenon and many people travel to remote locations to observe one. The 1999 total eclipse in Europe helped-to increase public awareness of the phenomenon, as illustrated by the number of journeys made specifically to witness the 2005 annular eclipse and the 2006 total eclipse. The most recent solar eclipse occurred on August 1, 2008, and was a total eclipse.

In ancient times, and in some cultures today, solar eclipses have been attributed to supernatural causes. Total solar eclipses can be frightening for people who are unaware of their astronomical explanation, as the Sun seems to disappear in the middle of the day and the sky darkens in a matter of minutes.

There will be a partial solar eclipse Jan 26.

The eclipse, first for the year, will start at 2.15pm on Monday and end by 4pm.

"The eclipse will be visible only from southern parts of India, eastern coast, most of northeast India, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep.

People in north and west India will miss the celestial activity," N. Rathnasree, director Nehru Planetarium, said.

The origin of the eclipse will be in south Atlantic Ocean in South Africa where the moon's shadow will first touch the earth, the official said. The eclipse ends when the moon's shadow finally leaves the earth in the South China Sea.
"People can watch the solar eclipse using proper eye gadgets and telescope as it is harmful to view it with naked eyes," Rathnasree said. The next solar eclipse will occur July 22 this year and will be the century's longest duration total solar eclipse.

"The path of the totality of the eclipse will pass through India and people across the country will be able to observe it," Rathnasree added.
Source-http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Partial_solar_eclipse_on_Jan_26/articleshow/4017145.cms
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_eclipse