Bengaluru to Witness the Magic of Zero Shadow Day on April 24 at 12:17 PM

Bengaluru to Witness the Magic of Zero Shadow Day on April 24 at 12:17 PM

Bengaluru is all set to witness a rare and visually intriguing celestial event — Zero Shadow Day — on April 24 at exactly 12:17 PM. If you happen to be outside during this time, don’t be surprised if your shadow mysteriously disappears!

What Is Zero Shadow Day?

Zero Shadow Day occurs when the sun is positioned directly overhead, causing vertical objects — like poles or even people — to cast no visible shadow. This fascinating phenomenon is due to the sun reaching its zenith, the highest point in the sky. When this happens, shadows fall directly underneath objects and appear to vanish entirely.

Why Does It Happen?

According to Dr. Niruj Mohan Ramanujam from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), this phenomenon is a direct consequence of the Earth’s axial tilt and orbit around the sun. As the sun appears to move northward toward the Tropic of Cancer during Uttarayana (the Hindu calendar's term for the sun's northward journey), it passes directly overhead in cities located between the Equator and the Tropic of Cancer.

Not Just a Bengaluru Affair

While Bengaluru gets its Zero Shadow Day this April, cities like Chennai, Mangaluru, and others in the tropical belt also experience it twice a year. In Bengaluru, the next occurrence will be around August 18. Meanwhile, the northernmost Zero Shadow Day coincides with the summer solstice on June 21, when the sun stands directly above the Tropic of Cancer.

Why It Matters

Beyond its visual appeal, Zero Shadow Day offers a simple, elegant demonstration of Earth's movement and orientation in space. It’s a moment that connects daily life with cosmic mechanics — and it's a great way to spark interest in science, especially among students and astronomy enthusiasts.

How to Observe It

Step outside a few minutes before 12:17 PM on April 24, and place a vertical object like a stick, bottle, or even stand upright yourself. Watch as the shadow shortens and disappears. Capture the moment, share it, and enjoy the wonders of our solar system — no telescope required!