What is the Sutak period and how long does it last before a solar eclipse?

Sutak is the period of ritual restriction preceding an eclipse. For a solar eclipse, Sutak begins 12 hours before the eclipse starts. During Sutak, cooking is avoided, food should not be eaten (with exceptions for children, pregnant women, and the elderly), temples close their inner sanctums, and auspicious activities are suspended. Tulsi leaves are placed in stored food and water as a purifying measure.