Solar Eclipse rituals

The solar eclipse was not visible that clearly in Bangalore due to cloudy weather.

As per Hindu tradition, a solar eclipse is a time when many strange things can happen. As a result, some of the rules prescribed are

1. One cannot eat during an eclipse
2. One must take a bath after an eclipse
3. Food must not be cooked during an eclipse. Food must be cooked after the eclipse only.
4. If there are any fruits, vegetables, then they need to be protected with a tulsi cutting
   

Yours truly forgot rule #2 and had to reminded about it quite strictly. So, with a cold brought about by dust allergy, I'm taking a shower at 9.00PM.