Some of the Indian superstitions are followed because of Indian mythology, many are passed down from our ancestors and simply followed out of habit, while some are based on scientific reasoning.
How do we separate superstition from tradition?
- Superstition is an irrational but usually deep-seated belief in the magical effects of a particular action or ritual and is an integral part of almost every culture around the world. Superstition is not based on reason, knowledge, or experience. Superstition is also applied to beliefs and practices surrounding luck, prophecy and spiritual beings, particularly the irrational belief that future events can be influenced or foretold by specific unrelated prior events.
- Culture is distinctly human and is transmitted through learning traditions and customs that govern behavior. There are many ways in which people differ from one another by virtue of traditions handed down through the generations, and these are often admirable and worthy of respect. A tradition is based on a set of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, and purpose of the universe.
E.g. Hanging lemon and chillis at the entrance
Lemon and chilli, both have insecticidal properties which keep insects away. The cotton thread which is used to pierce the chillies and lemon absorbs the acid from the fruit whilst it is fresh. This smell keeps the pests and insects away from the house/ shops. This is a simple pesticide which came into practice from ancient times, which is mislead now superstitiously as explained above.
E.g. Bats Entering The House Brings Death
There is an old myth that if a bat enters the house or flies around the hose for three times or more then death is waiting for someone in the family. The real reason behind the bats entering the hose brings death is because of the disease transmitted by bats were deadly back in the days when there was no medicines for these disease. Rabies, Nipah, Hendra, Ebola and Marburg are all viruses carried by bats that can cause serious disease in humans. Marburg virus and some strains of Ebola virus can kill up to 80-90% of humans infected.
References:
- Tradition vs Superstition - Substance Education
- 5 Indian superstitions and facts behind them
- 15 Indian Superstitions And It's Logic | 15 Reasons Of Superstitions In India
- Science & Superstition
- 5 Common Indian Superstitions Backed By Scientific Reasons
- Scientific logic behind superstitions in India | Vibe Indian