essay on superstitions in india

Essay On Superstition

500 words essay on superstition.

Ever since a long time, we have seen man believe in some kind of power unseen. Even though they can’t see it, they feel it is present and working. This is what gives rise to superstitions. They are unreasonable and irrational but they still exist all over the world. Through essay on superstition, we will go through it in detail.

Origin of Superstitions

The man started to believe in superstitions when he got a feeling that humans are at the mercy of natural elements. Similarly, some superstitions were also created because of social values. As a result, people worship forces of nature for a long time.

The Greeks and Pagans used to worship elements of nature in the form of Gods and Goddesses. Same is the case with Indian tradition. People continue to worship the sun, moon, stars, planets, plants and more believing these things have the power to influence our lives.

You might have heard ‘it is because of the impact of some evil star’ and more when a disease overtakes or disaster strikes. Even the people in the West have been believing in them. You will find instances in Shakespeare’s plays where he includes things like omens, witches and more.

In fact, ever since a long time till date, people still consider the number 13 to be unlucky. Similarly, salt spilling over the dinner table is also an ill-omen. In India , people consider the black cat crossing the way to be unlucky. Similar is the case of an owl hooting or a dog wailing.

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India and Superstitions

India has a long history of superstitions. There are many superstitions which people in this country follow. When someone sneezes during the time of departure, people consider it unlucky.

Similarly, when you hear long mewing of a cat, people consider it a bad omen. Alternatively, offering curd before the start of any journey is auspicious. A group which follows superstitions a lot are students appearing for an examination.

Weeks before exams, the visit to temples starts to grow. Some of the students also get a taveez with a lucky stone to help them out. Further, some students place their stationery for the exam in the prayer room.

Most common superstitions include not cutting nails at night, not using the broom after sunset, not opening the scissors without cutting anything, not looking at oneself in a broken mirror and many more.

Even some political leaders in India believe in superstitions. For instance, they wait for an auspicious day to file their nomination or take an oath. In other words, even in the highest places, people do follow superstitions.

Conclusion of the Essay on Superstition

If we look at it closely, there is no logic as such behind the beliefs in superstitions. However, they have grown age-old and despite all the scientific advancement, they are not going anywhere soon. However, it is better to subject ourselves less to them otherwise each moment of our life will be on the edge.

FAQ of Essay on Superstition

Question 1: What are some superstitions followed in India?

Answer 1: In India, people consider the black cat crossing the way to be unlucky. Similar is the case of an owl hooting or a dog wailing. Indians also offer curd before the start of a journey.

Question 2: What is the importance of superstition?

Answer 2: For several people, engaging with superstitious behaviours offers a sense of control and eases anxiety. This is why levels of superstition rise at times of stress and angst. This is mostly the case during times of economic crisis and social uncertainty notably wars and conflicts.

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21 Superstitions That Indians Believe

Are you familiar with the practice of touching wood when you wish for something to turn true? India is a country that is full of superstitions like these that cannot be explained by reason. Yet, we have continued to witness their practices since childhood.

How many times have you asked your elders about a reason behind a superstition and got no answer? That is because most superstitions are based on no logic whatsoever, while others may have originated from a genuine reason, but have gradually lost their real essence. 

Regardless of their source, it can be quite interesting to explore some of the most common superstitions in India and how they have come to be.

1. Cutting Nails o Hair After Sunset Brings Bad Luck

Cutting nails or hair after sunset is considered to bring bad luck to yourself. The superstition defies any reason or logic, but the practice may spring from the times when electricity was scarce . Hence, people preferred to get these chores done before dark to avoid any hygiene issues or injuries .

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2. Eye Twitching Signifies Wealth Coming Your Way

You may often find one of your eyes twitching. While this can be due to a multitude of reasons related to your physical health, the Indian interpretation is a little different. According to the famous superstitious belief, if the right eye is twitching, then it signifies promising news for a man. On the contrary, for a woman, it implies that some foreboding news is on the way. For the left eye twitch, it is exactly the opposite.

3. Applying Kohl to Ward Off Evil Spirits

The practice of applying a black mark of kohl on a child comes from the belief that it can ward off evil energy or nazar . If someone views the child with bad intentions in their mind, the kala tika will make sure they remain unaffected. The popular belief is that the black tika makes the child seem ugly, so any negative energy will shy away from it. This mark is usually applied in places such as behind the ear or on the forehead .

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4. Not Stepping Out of Your House During an Eclipse

It is considered extremely bad luck to step out of your house while an eclipse is happening. This is one of many popular Indian superstitions that instill fear in the minds of the common people. People prefer to remain in their homes, practice fasting, and pray to God.

An eclipse is also considered to be harmful to an unborn child as it may cause skin diseases . This belief probably comes from the fact that looking directly at an eclipse may cause permanent blindness. But, years of passing it down through different generations have turned it into a silly superstition.

5. Itchy Palms Are A Sign of Incoming Wealth in Your Life

A slight itching of your palm is considered a superstition in Indian culture. It indicates either wealth is coming your way or you are going to have additional expenses and a loss of wealth. This popular belief is based on which one of your palms is itching. If it’s your left hand, then it is probably bad news. However, if the itching is in your right hand, then you are about to be rich!

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6. Adding One Rupee to Your Gift is Lucky

You must have witnessed people receiving money in the form of gifts. Each of these envelopes has an odd amount of money. Even the market sells envelopes with a one rupee coin sealed in it. This is because it is considered as good luck to add a one rupee coin to your monetary gift. Hence, such gifts are mostly the numbers of 51, 101, 501, and so on.

7. Spotting a Single Mynah is Unlucky

Mynahs are part of one of the most common superstitions in India. These birds are generally found in pairs. But beware, because if you spot a single one, it is considered immense bad luck. Hence, you must wait till you spot another one to nullify the bad omen. Paired mynahs indicate that your day ahead will go well. Another popular belief says that finding six mynahs together signifies wealth coming into your life soon.

8. Taking a Bath After a Funeral is Mandatory

It is a part of Indian customs to not touch anything in the house after coming back from a funeral. You can only do so after taking a bath and changing your clothes. While this superstition has been in practice for a long while, it does have some scientific relevance. A dead body is a nest for many harmful bacteria which may cause various infections. Hence, it is compulsory to wash yourself free from bacteria after being close to a dead body.

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9. Menstruating Women Are Impure

It is a pity that even in the 21st Century women are prohibited from taking part in rituals and religious practices if they are menstruating. This time of the month for every woman is perceived as being impure. However, centuries before, the privilege of using sanitary products when women were as active in the field as in their homes was simply non-existent.

Instead, they were excused from their chores to rest at home. This meant not going to temples as well because it indicated travelling with discomfort. But, gradually, the myth of their impurity came into being when this method was adopted for their well-being.

10. Hanging Lemons And Chilis Keeps Misfortune Away

Lemons and chilis are often at the entrances of homes due to the popular belief that they keep evil spirits and negative energy away. The goddess of misfortune is believed to be a fan of spice and sour, hence she keeps out of houses that satisfy her preferences. It is for this reason that you will find lemons and chillies hanging in a vehicle as well. 

However, the scientific logic behind this is the insecticidal properties of lemons and chillies. It successfully keeps your home and vehicle free from the entry of insects and pests.

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11. Crow Droppings Bring Good Luck

Any kind of animal dropping is quite disgusting, to be honest. Hence, it is no surprise that superstitions have found a way through this to make the experience seem more optimistic. It is popularly believed in Indian culture that crow droppings bring you luck and wealth. This may sound extremely silly and has no scientific basis, but it may provide a little relief and hope from an otherwise unpleasant experience.

12. Stepping Over Someone Hinders Their Height

How often have you been asked not to step over someone and to instead go by their side? The belief here holds that if you walk over someone while they’re lying down, it restricts their growth. Hence, they will be stuck in their current height forever. Choosing to not step over someone can be perceived as a sign of respect, but otherwise, it has no other scientific explanation or proof that it can hinder someone’s increase in height.

13. The Unlucky Number 13

The number 13 is considered unlucky in almost every culture. People born on the 13th date are considered doomed for life, while any Friday, the 13th is feared as the most haunted day. Many house hunters steer clear from buying their home on the 13th floor. Moreover, some buildings even skip naming the 13th floor. Hence, there are numerous prejudices against the number 13, yet none are backed by scientific evidence.

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14. Black Cats Are Signs Of Evil

The ancient Egyptians considered black cats as evil and, somehow, the prejudice has crept into India as well. People are horrified if a black cat crosses their path because it indicates that they will be met with misfortune if they keep walking. In Indian culture, it is believed that a black cat is the representation of the God of bad luck, Shani. 

Hence, people avoid the forthcoming misfortune by letting someone else walk through the path that the cat crossed. Once again, this superstition is not based on any facts or scientific research.

15. Eating Curd Brings Positive Results

The habit of eating curd and sugar before an important event in your life is believed to bring positive results and good luck. While this may not have any hard evidence, this harmless superstition has made its way into every Indian household and turned into a simple and sweet tradition. Hence, if you need the confidence to brace an interview, eat a spoonful of curd from your mom and you will be good to go!

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16. A Peepal Tree is Haunted

In popular Indian myths, the peepal tree is home to ghosts and evil spirits. Hence, if you find yourself beneath one after darkness, you will surely get possessed by the spirit inhabiting the tree. Needless to say, this has no factual evidence. It probably stems from the warning that was issued to stay away from trees at night because of the release of carbon dioxide. Unfortunately, generations of stories have molded it into a superstition.

17. Shaking Legs Results in Loss of Wealth

Constantly shaking your leg is a sign of anxiety. If you find yourself doing so often, you are probably being troubled by uncomfortable thoughts. However, Indian superstitions have a different explanation for it. According to popular belief, the more you shake your leg, the more risk you have of losing your wealth.

Hence, if you want to preserve your wealth, consider working on your anxiety. Regardless of what any superstition dictates, it is always recommended to take the help of astrology services to determine which rituals are mere superstitions, and which ones can help you move forward towards success.

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18. Broken Glass Brings ill Fortune

This popular belief originates from Rome where it was gradually spread that breaking glass brings seven years of misfortune. India seems to have followed in its footsteps as we often hear our elders asking us to be careful with glass because breaking it will result in bad luck.

19. Sweeping After Sunset is Unlucky

Indian mythology dictates that the Goddess of wealth, Lakshmi visits every home in the evening. Thus, if you sweep your house at the same time, the goddess will be unable to enter causing you to be deprived of wealth. This superstition probably rose from the fear of losing something in the dark after sunset.

20. Passing Sharp Objects Causes Conflicts

Indians believe that if you keep your shoes overturned or pass any sharp objects, it can lead to disagreements and conflicts. Instead, a sharp object must always be kept on a surface for someone to pick it up from there to avoid any unwanted arguments.

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21. Spilling Salt Is A Bad Omen

Spilling salt is considered to be a terrible omen and is known to indicate inevitable disaster. The only way of protecting yourself from it is to throw a pinch of the spilled salt over your shoulder.

Thus, we can conclude that many Indian superstitions have almost no basis of logic or reason, yet they form a significant part of our culture. Exploring their cultural significance tells us a lot about the powerful belief system of India.

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Superstition in India: Causes, Arguments for & Against, Govt Efforts

From Current Affairs Notes for UPSC » Editorials & In-depths » This topic

In a recent incident in Vadodara, an individual believed to be possessed, killed his mother considering her a witch. Similarly, a newborn ailing child was branded by a hot iron rod instead of taking him to a hospital in Odisha. Incidents like these are quite common in countries like India. From ancient times, superstitions played a major role in India. India being a land of diversity and varying social practices has a bunch of superstitions prevailing in the society. Here we will discuss the various aspects of superstition in India.

This topic of “Superstition in India: Causes, Arguments for & Against, Govt Efforts” is important from the perspective of the UPSC IAS Examination , which falls under General Studies Portion.

What is superstition?

A superstition is a false belief, idea, or fear of something which lacks any rational substance. It may include beliefs, ideas and fear, regarded as both good and ominous.

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Types of superstitions in India

• Religious superstitions
• Cultural superstitions
• Social practices that are superstitious.

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Causes of superstitions in India

• Culture :- One’s culture plays a major role in developing his or her habits and beliefs. In Indian culture, people are brought up in such a way that their lives are surrounded by various superstitious rituals and practices. In this situation, people grow up inheriting such beliefs and practices.
• Society :- Society plays an important role in shaping people’s thoughts and behaviour. In Indian society, there are ample practices that have the potential to affect one’s way of thinking and thus they affect the individual in one or various ways.
• Lack of education :- India being a developing country is yet to have a 100% literacy rate and this in turn has implications for the society. Illiterate people cannot differentiate between fact and fiction and that’s why they tend to believe irrational beliefs and practices easily.
• Fear of being called an outcast :- In Indian society, people being brought up by practising such beliefs and rituals tend to be afraid of not believing them or not performing them. Most people perform such rituals out of fear and others perform them to adhere to the prevailing social norms.
• Local practices :- In many parts of India, mostly in tribal areas, superstition is inherent in local practices, and thus it is difficult to avoid them in some or other way.

Arguments for

• Superstitions provide a sense of control in the minds of people and thus they help people remain calm, composed and confident during adverse situations.
• Some superstitions have scientific reasons behind them and they are not merely an outcome of magical thinking. They keep people safe from unknown adverse outcomes.
• In modern times, we stay aloof from our roots. If something is practised for a long time then it must have some particular rationale behind it. Many practices in our daily life are some examples of it.
• They enhance people’s performance in the time of adversity because of the belief that their lucky charm is protecting them.

Arguments against

• The prevalence of widespread superstitions in India has led to the loss of many lives. In most of the rural and tribal areas, many people especially women and children lose their lives due to such superstitious practices.
• Superstition in India has also given rise to many self-proclaimed godmen. These godmen extract a lot of money from people in the name of solving their problems.
• In a time where the whole world is looking forward to solving its various problems by the use of science and technology, many places in India are making India lag behind in making progress because of such superstitious beliefs and practices.
• Superstitions regarding women in India have led to the suppression of women in India and the denial of their basic rights.
• Black magic and human sacrifices in many states of India tend to be a strong example of such superstitions.

Prevalence of superstition in India and common examples

• Superstitions are not only a common phenomenon in India but all over the world. But due to the diverse nature of Indian society, these are present in all the nooks and corners of the country. These have become a daily part of people’s lives.
• Many practices like hanging lemons and chillies in front of house doors and shops are considered to be quite common.
• Practices related to death and fear of dead people tend to make people act in various ways like keeping metallic objects with oneself and so on.
• Many people and pregnant ladies tend to follow many rituals during the solar and lunar eclipse in India.
• Superstitions regarding women have led to them being considered as having a subordinate role only in society.

Way forward

• Encouraging literacy – Improving the literacy rate in India and providing quality education to all may prove to be a game-changer in such a grim situation of superstitions.
• Focus on rural and tribal areas- those areas which are devoid of educational opportunities need to be especially focused on to bring about a visible change in the prevailing scenario.
• Raising awareness- raising awareness can play an important role in eradicating such a social evil in India. People should be made aware of the rationale behind a particular belief or habit and they should be made aware of the fact of how superstitions can harm their social and personal growth.
• Focus on science and technology- people need to get introduced to science and technology, find reasons behind doing everything and not the following something blindly.
• Female literacy- If one delves deep into the problem then one can see that female literacy can play a phenomenal role in eradicating these superstitions. Most of the superstitions are carried forward by women and they are the worst victims. If they are educated properly, this could pose a serious challenge to the rising superstitions in our society.
• Separating belief and religion- This will play a major role in countering this problem. People should understand the difference between religion and blind rituals in the name of religion thus creating a rational fervour in the society.

Superstitions and the Indian Constitution

The Indian Constitution by providing freedom of religion as a fundamental right has always tried to protect the interests of all religions. But this freedom has also led to the practice of various social evils in its name. These practices violate the basic rights of people who are the victims of such practices. Our forefathers must have foreseen this problem and thus through the 42nd constitutional amendment Act, through The Fundamental Duties, the Indian Constitution expects its citizens to develop a scientific temperament, spirit of enquiry, humanism and reforms. Thus, there is a need for a striking balance that is expected by the Indian Constitution from its citizens.

Government initiatives

• Various governments at various levels have tried to fight this problem but very few have succeeded.
• The State of Bihar, Rajasthan, have already such laws in place but they fail to address the problem completely.
• The state of Maharashtra became the first state to pass legislation against superstitions. It was due to the endeavours of social activist Narendra Dabholkar that the Maharashtra Prevention and Eradication of Human Sacrifice and other Inhuman, Evil and Aghori Practices and Black Magic Act in 2013 was passed.
• Karnataka became the second state to introduce a similar law- Karnataka Prevention and Eradication of Inhuman Evil Practices and Black Magic Bill .
• The State of Assam passed the legislation- Assam Witch Hunting (Prohibition, Prevention and Protection) Bill, 2015 to counter the problem of superstitions related to witch-hunting.
• All these laws ban black magic, human sacrifices, magic to cure ailments and such acts that tend to exploit people’s superstitions.
• There are many instances where magic remedies and magic drugs are offered to cure various diseases. To deal with this problem the government enacted The Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954 . This law tries to prohibit such advertisements and publicising magic remedies that lure people into finding a quick solution to their problems.
• The various laws in place are inadequate to deal with this social malice and therefore, the country needs central legislation. There are many instances where the central government wished to introduce such laws but they invited widespread opposition by various sections of society and thus, such bills were shelved. Hence, it is time that the central government works in close coordination with the States to make sure that these laws are introduced and implemented properly.

Many governmental and non-governmental organisations are trying to tackle this problem at various levels by raising awareness among people. In a country like India with such great diversity and people of different cultures living together, it will be a difficult task to deal with it. Passing laws merely will not help, rather there is a need to change the mindset of people that requires constant working on the behalf of all the stakeholders. India still has a long way to go.

• https://theprint.in/opinion/state-anti-supersti…
• https://blog.ipleaders.in/rising-need-anti-supe…
• https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Superstition
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Essay on Superstitions in India With Examples

It is truly a challenging task to write an essay on superstitions in India in just 100-500 words. We know that the web is loaded with hundreds and thousands of essays on this. But you, very often get confused to pick out the appropriate one. Right?

Sometimes you want an essay in just 100 words, but when you search it on the web you get a very long essay of around 1000-1500 words and it becomes very difficult for you to pick your 100 words from that long essay. And you end up losing some of the most important points that are worth a mention.

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We, team GuideToExam are here to find a solution to your every problem. This time we have prepared this essay on superstitions in India in 100 to 500 words separately so that you can pick your desired one as per your choice. You can also use these essays to prepare an article or a speech on Superstitions in India.

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Table of Contents

Essay on Superstitions in India (100 Words)

The blind belief or faith in supernatural elements or incidents is called superstitions. Though we are in the 21st century, there are still many superstitions in India. In some parts of India people still, believe that crossing of the road by a cat in front of our vehicles is inauspicious.

Another major superstition in India is the belief in witches. In India, many women are still killed or tortured considering them a Witch. These are nothing but social evils. Some anti-social groups take chance by spreading superstitions among the people. All these social evils should be removed from society to make India a powerful and developed country.

Essay on Superstitions in India (200 Words)

Superstition is a kind of blind belief in supernatural powers that don’t have any scientific explanations behind them. Superstitions in India are a serious problem. Though it is hard to believe, it is true that some ‘pundits’ or fake ‘Babas’ has been still spreading superstitions in India in the name of religion.

The half-literate people believe in superstitions easily. An educated man can identify the scientific reasons behind any supernatural explanations or incidents. But an illiterate easily can be a victim of superstitions. Thus increasing the literacy rate is very much necessary to remove superstitions in India or Indian society.

In ancient times there are many superstitions like Sati Dah, witchcraft, etc. in Indian society. But later it has been removed. With the advancements in science and technology, India has developed a lot.

But still, some people in backward societies be of the opinion that some supernatural powers are there exist. That is nothing but their ignorance. There are no scientific explanations behind superstitions like a cat can bring misfortune to us while journey, An owl can make us sick by his sound, a parrot can tell us our future, etc.

Thus these superstitions need to be abolished from our society and should try to step forward with the development of science and technology.

Essay on Superstitions in India (300 Words)

Superstitions are impulsive beliefs in supernatural powers that don’t have any acceptable explanations. Superstition is a worldwide paradox. But Superstition in India is a serious worry for the development of the country. Superstition in India is not a single-day occurrence.

It has come down to us from ancient times. In ancient times people were not scientifically developed like today. During that period people considered the sun, the moon, fire, water, storm, etc. as supernatural powers. They could not find out the reason behind this nature’s routine process and considered them as supernatural objects.

Again ancient people believed that diseases are caused by evil spirits. But later some superstitions have been washed out from society with the development of science and technology.

But still, superstition in India is not completely wiped out. In many parts of our country people still believe that if there is an itching in the right palm, there is a possibility of some gain on that day, if a crow starts to caw on the house roof; people expect the arrival of the guest.

There is no scientific reason behind superstitions like this. Another superstition in India is the utmost belief in ghosts or supernatural powers. Some people still believe in ghosts and think that there is the existence of a ghost.

Even some superstitious people have classified the seven days of the week into a different category. They believe that Tuesday and Saturday are not auspicious days to start new work. On the other hand, Thursday is the best day to start a new work. Isn’t it funny? 

Superstition in India is really a serious concern. People fall into the grip of superstitions due to a lack of education. Thus the literacy rate of the country needs to be improved to remove superstitions from India. Otherwise, superstition will reduce the speed of development of our country.

In many parts of our country people still believe that if there is an itching in the right palm, there is a possibility of some gain on that day, if a crow starts to caw on the house roof; people expect the arrival of the guest. There is no scientific reason behind superstitions like this.

Another superstition in India is the utmost belief in ghosts or supernatural powers. Some people still believe in ghosts and think that there is the existence of a ghost. Even some superstitious people have classified the seven days of the week into a different category.

They believe that Tuesday and Saturday are not auspicious days to start new work. On the other hand, Thursday is the best day to start a new work. Isn’t it funny?  Superstition in India is really a serious concern. People fall into the grip of superstitions due to a lack of education.

Thus the literacy rate of the country needs to be improved to remove superstitions from India. Otherwise, superstition will reduce the speed of development of our country.

They believe that Tuesday and Saturday are not auspicious days to start new work. On the other hand, Thursday is the best day to start a new work. Isn’t it funny?  Superstition in India is really a serious concern.

People fall into the grip of superstitions due to a lack of education. Thus the literacy rate of the country needs to be improved to remove superstitions from India. Otherwise, superstition will reduce the speed of development of our country.

Essay on Superstitions in India (500 Words)

What is superstition — Excessively credulous belief in and reverence for the supernatural elements are known as superstition. Simply it can be said that superstition is a kind of blind belief in the supernatural that doesn’t have any acceptable logic or scientific explanations behind that.

Superstitions in India – India is a country full of superstitions. Superstition in Indian society is not a new arrival. It has come down to us from the ancient days. During the old days, there were many superstitions in India.

Sati dah, consideration of wind, drought, earthquake, etc. are acts of evil spirits are the example of such Superstition in India in ancient times. Later on, people find the actual logic or cause of those natural calamities and thus those superstitions have been washed out from society.

But still, we can find a lot of superstitions in Indian society. In different parts of the country people still believe that the cawing of a crow on the roof of a house is a sign of the arrival of guests, if a cat crosses the road in front of a vehicle it’s considered bad luck.

Again adding a coin of Rs 1 to the gift amount is a traditional superstition in India. One more funny superstition in India is that people consider it inappropriate to get a haircut or to have a shave on Tuesday or Saturday.

These superstitions don’t have acceptable references or scientific justifications. But people accept it without any protest. There are lots more superstitions in India, but it is not possible to point out all those superstitions in an essay on superstition in India.

Factors behind the superstitions in India – Illiterate people generally fall in the grip of superstitions. They can’t judge an incident from a scientific point of view. In India, the literacy rate is just 70.44% (as per recent data), which is quite low in comparison to other developed countries.

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The low literacy rate is a vital factor behind the superstitions in India. Again in our country, a lot of fake Baba’s or Pundits are found who make people superstitious in the name of religion. By doing so they not only make people fool but also scatter the seed of superstitions in India for their own benefits.

Conclusion– Superstition is a social evil. It should be removed from society. The literacy rate needs to be improved as much as possible to remove superstitions in India. On the other hand, government or non-government organizations can take initiatives to educate people and teach them to think scientifically.

Some Common Superstitions in India  

There are a lot of superstitions in India. Here are a few common superstitions in India –

• It is inappropriate to get a haircut or to have a shave on Tuesday or Saturday.
• The cawing of a crow on the roof of a house is a sign of the arrival of guests.
• If a cat crosses the road in front of a vehicle it’s considered bad luck.
• A one Rs coin needs to be added with the gift amount.
• Tuesday and Saturday are not auspicious days to start new work.
• Hanging lemon with some chilies can bring good luck to a shop.
• No 13 is unlucky.
• To sweep the floor at night is inauspicious.
• A woman becomes inauspicious during menstruation.
• Looking at a broken mirror can bring bad luck.

Final Words

This is all about superstitions in India. If you want any more points to be added to this essay or article on superstitions in India. Drop it in the comment section or feel free to contact us.

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Indian superstitions and the theories behind them: Not to be missed

The list features some of the popular indian superstitions and the theories behind them..

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From breaking mirrors to hanging lemon and chilies, India is a country of diverse culture and tradition, as well as of a lot of superstitions. We see them all around every day. A black cat crosses our path and like a dead statue, we stop and wait for someone else to pass first. The best part about the country is that we continue to practice them even if we know nothing is going to happen. Incredible India? Yes!

Let's look at some of the superstitions in India and the theories behind them:

Essay on Superstition 1000+ Words

Superstitions have been a part of human culture for centuries. From avoiding black cats to knocking on wood, these beliefs are intriguing and often shape our behavior. In this essay, we will explore the world of superstition, its origins, significance, and how it continues to influence our lives.

Defining Superstition

Superstition refers to irrational beliefs or practices that are often based on fear or ignorance. People believe in superstitions to bring good luck, avoid bad luck, or control the unpredictable. Superstitions can vary greatly from one culture to another and even from one person to another.

Historical Roots

Superstitions have deep historical roots and have evolved over time. Ancient civilizations, like the Egyptians and Greeks, had their own superstitions related to gods, nature, and the supernatural. Some of these beliefs continue to influence modern superstitions today.

Cultural Significance

Superstitions are an integral part of culture. They shape traditions, rituals, and even everyday habits. For example, in many cultures, it’s considered unlucky to walk under a ladder or to break a mirror. Understanding these cultural superstitions can help us appreciate the diversity of human beliefs.

Psychological Comfort

Superstitions often provide psychological comfort. They can give people a sense of control in uncertain situations. Studies have shown that engaging in superstitious behavior can reduce anxiety and boost confidence. In this way, superstitions can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

Rituals and Habits

Superstitions often manifest as rituals and habits. For instance, athletes may have pre-game rituals to ensure good performance. Many people have lucky charms or wear specific clothing on important occasions. These rituals help individuals feel more prepared and confident.

Impact on Decision-Making

Superstitions can influence decision-making, especially in high-stakes situations. For example, a student might believe that wearing a certain shirt will bring them good luck during an exam. This belief may affect their performance and confidence.

Common Superstitions

Some superstitions are so widespread that they are known around the world. Common examples include avoiding walking under a ladder, carrying a rabbit’s foot for luck, and not opening an umbrella indoors. These superstitions are often passed down through generations.

Cultural Variations

Superstitions can vary greatly across cultures. In some cultures, the number 13 is considered unlucky, while in others, it’s the number 4. Understanding these cultural differences can help us respect and appreciate diverse beliefs.

Skepticism and Rational Thinking

While many people believe in superstitions, others are skeptical and rely on rational thinking. They may see superstitions as illogical and not based on evidence. Promoting critical thinking and education can lead to a better understanding of the world and a reduction in superstitions.

Conclusion of Essay on Superstition

In conclusion, superstitions are a fascinating aspect of human culture and psychology. They have deep historical roots, influence our behavior and decisions, and provide comfort in uncertain times. Superstitions can vary widely from one culture to another, highlighting the rich tapestry of human beliefs.

While superstitions can be fun and comforting, it’s important to strike a balance between tradition and rational thinking. By understanding the origins and significance of superstitions, we can appreciate their cultural value while also fostering critical thinking and skepticism when necessary. Superstitions remind us of the complexity of human beliefs and the enduring power of tradition in our lives.

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15 Common Superstitions in India That Will Blow Your Mind

India, a tapestry of diverse cultures and traditions, is a land where ancient beliefs coexist with modern lifestyles. Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, one cannot ignore the prevalence of superstitions that permeate various aspects of Indian society. These superstitions, deeply ingrained in the fabric of daily routines, have a profound impact on people’s decisions, behaviors, and even their health. In this exploration, we will uncover some of the most common superstitions in India, unraveling the threads of belief that shape the lives of millions.

1. The Red Thread of Destiny

One of the widely embraced superstitions in India is the belief in the ‘Red Thread of Destiny.’ Many Indians tie a red thread also called a “Mauli” around their wrists, considering it a symbol of protection and good fortune. This ancient practice stems from the belief that the red thread connects individuals with their destined life paths. The Red Thread of Destiny tangibly intertwines tradition and daily life, despite its mystical origins, serving as a reminder.

2. The Omens of Sneezing

Sneezing, a common bodily function, takes on a whole new meaning in the realm of Indian superstitions. The belief that a sneeze can be an omen, signaling either good or bad luck, is widespread. The interpretation varies based on the time of day or the number of sneezes. While some see it as a positive sign, others might consider it a forewarning. This superstition, deeply rooted in cultural beliefs, highlights the intricate dance between the seen and the unseen.

3. The Lemon and Chillies Superstition

A common sight adorning the entrances of homes across India is the arrangement of lemons and green chillies strung together, often hanging from doors or windows. This peculiar tradition is not merely a decorative choice but is deeply rooted in superstition. Believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck, this practice is prevalent across various regions. The combination of green chillies, known for their pungent flavor, and lemons, believed to absorb negative energy, is considered a potent deterrent against malevolent forces.

The sight of these vibrant clusters signifies not just an effort to spice up the visual appeal but a symbolic gesture aimed at protecting the household from the unseen realms of the supernatural. In a country where traditions seamlessly blend with everyday life, the hanging of lemons and chillies stands as a vivid testament to the enduring power of superstition in shaping cultural practices.

4. The Mystical Influence of Astrology

Astrology, an ancient science that maps celestial influences on human affairs, plays a significant role in shaping decisions and actions in India. From determining auspicious wedding dates to guiding daily activities based on zodiac signs, astrology permeates the lives of many. While some view it as a guiding light, others argue that it confines individuals within the boundaries of predetermined destinies, blurring the line between free will and cosmic influence.

5. The Foreboding of a Black Cat’s Path

In India, encountering a black cat is often considered an ominous sign. The superstition suggests that crossing paths with a black cat can bring bad luck, especially if it happens during significant life events. This belief has its roots in cultural folklore and has led to various rituals aimed at warding off the perceived negativity associated with these sleek, dark felines.

6. The Inauspiciousness of Broken Mirrors

In India, breaking a mirror isn’t just an accident; it’s often seen as an omen predicting impending misfortune. The superstition surrounding broken mirrors links back to the idea that mirrors hold a reflection of one’s soul. Consequently, a fractured mirror symbolizes a fractured soul, inviting a cascade of negative energy. This belief influences how people approach the fragility of reflective surfaces in their daily lives.

7. The Superstition of the Evil Eye

The concept of the ‘Evil Eye’ transcends geographical boundaries and finds a prominent place in Indian superstitions. The belief holds that a malevolent gaze can bring harm or misfortune to an individual. To counteract this perceived threat, various talismans, such as the Nazar Battu (evil eye bead), are used as protective charms. People go to great lengths, hanging lemons and chillies, to shield themselves from unseen forces affecting their well-being.

8. The Significance of Ritualistic Touch

In India, the act of touching certain objects or individuals is often laden with superstitions. From the belief that touching the feet of elders brings blessings to avoiding certain plants or trees due to perceived negative energy, these rituals underscore the deep connection between physical actions and metaphysical consequences. Understanding the significance of these touches provides insights into the complex tapestry of cultural superstitions that guide interpersonal relationships.

9. The Mysterious Impact of Planetary Movements

Babies, the epitome of innocence, are surrounded by a myriad of very common superstitions. Considered auspicious, a newborn’s first cry symbolizes announcing the baby’s arrival to the world, marking a joyous occasion. Astrological considerations guide the meticulous process of naming, attributing specific letters thought to bring good fortune.

Astrology takes yet another form in India, with the belief that planetary movements significantly influence human affairs. At birth, the alignment of celestial bodies shapes personality traits, relationships, and career paths, according to belief. In fact, making birth charts or “kundali” of a new born is extremely common. This superstition has given rise to the practice of consulting astrologers for guidance, creating a bridge between the cosmic and the personal in the pursuit of a harmonious life.

10. The Symbolism of Hooting Owls

In Indian superstitions, people often perceive the haunting hoot of an owl as an eerie harbinger of impending doom. The superstition surrounding these nocturnal birds varies across regions, with some considering them messengers of death and others associating their calls with supernatural forces. Various rituals, aiming to ward off perceived negative energy brought by owls, stem from the fear associated with them.

11. The Ritual of Touching Wood for Good Luck

In Indian culture, people deeply embed the superstition of touching wood for good luck. The belief is that expressing a positive hope or desire followed by a touch on wood ensures its manifestation. This age-old tradition reflects the human tendency to seek tangible actions to safeguard against uncertainties, emphasizing the power of rituals in shaping beliefs and attitudes.

12. The Web of Pregnancy Superstitions

Pregnancy, a time of anticipation and joy, is also rife with superstitions in India. Some believe that craving sour foods, often dismissed as hormonal changes, indicates the gender of the unborn child. If a pregnant woman craves sour foods, she may be carrying a boy, while a desire for sweets suggests a girl.

Astrological considerations play a significant role in pregnancy superstitions. Astrologers meticulously analyze the alignment of stars and planets at the time of conception to predict the child’s future. Another common superstition is that, the evil eye is a constant concern during pregnancy. Hence, this leads to the use of protective amulets and rituals to ward off negative energies.

13. Nuptial Knots and Marriage Superstitions

A tapestry of superstitions surrounds the sacred institution of marriage in India. The timing of the wedding is crucial, with specific dates considered more auspicious than others. Deeming Tuesdays and Saturdays as favorable, people often avoid the month of December due to its association with inauspicious events.

The exchange of garlands during the marriage ceremony is not just a symbol of love but also a protective measure. Many believe that the exchange shields the couple from the evil eye and ensures a harmonious life ahead. The breaking of glass or clay pots is another common ritual, symbolizing the shattering of negative forces and the onset of a new, blessed journey.

14. Good Luck Charms and Omens

In the kaleidoscope of the common Indian superstitions, good luck charms and omens take center stage. The sight of a black cat crossing the path may send shivers down the spine in many cultures, but in India, the scenario is quite different. Interestingly, people believe that the purity of infants attracts evil spirits, necessitating the implementation of protective measures. Believers attribute good luck and the repelling of negative forces to the presence of a peacock feather.

The vibrant hues of marigold, often seen adorning doorways, are not merely decorative. Believers attribute prosperity and good fortune to marigolds, making them a staple in various ceremonies and celebrations. Breaking a mirror is universally unlucky, but in India, it amplifies consequences, believed to bring seven years of bad luck.

15. Babies and Tender Superstitions

Interestingly, believers attribute the drawing of evil spirits to the purity of infants, necessitating imperative protective measures. Applying kohl, a traditional eye cosmetic, for babies not only serves as a cosmetic choice but is believed to shield them from the malevolent gaze of supernatural entities. Furthermore, people believe that placing a black dot on the child’s cheek averts the evil eye.

Threads of Tradition Unraveled

In our exploration of common superstitions in India, we have delved into a rich tapestry of beliefs surrounding good luck, bad luck, pregnancy, marriage, and babies. These superstitions, deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric, reflect the intricate blend of tradition and spirituality that defines the Indian way of life.

As we unravel these threads, we find not just common superstitions but a mosaic of stories, passed down through generations, adding depth and color to the cultural canvas of India. Do you have a superstition you believe in? Write in the comments below!

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Top 10 Superstitious Beliefs In India People Have

• Post author: Edeh Samuel Chukwuemeka ACMC
• Post published: April 28, 2023
• Post category: Scholarly Articles

Superstitious Beliefs in India: India is a nation that is immersed in tradition, culture, and superstition. Superstitious beliefs have become an integral part of daily life in India, with many practices being passed down from one generation to the next. The influence of superstition is apparent in numerous aspects of Indian society, ranging from the significance of astrology to the belief in auspicious and inauspicious numbers.

Superstitions can be found across all segments of society, whether in rural or urban regions, and can have significant impacts on decision-making, behavior, and attitudes. This article will examine the most prevalent superstitious beliefs in India, their origins, and their impact on Indian society.

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Superstitious Beliefs in India

1. People with flat feet bring bad luck: The notion that individuals with flat feet are bearers of bad fortune is a popular superstitious belief within Indian culture. This ideology stems from the notion that those with flat feet are not adequately grounded, making them more susceptible to negative energy and malevolent spirits. Despite this, there is no scientific or evidential basis for this belief.

Rather, it is a mere superstition passed down through generations. It is vital to recognize that physical attributes, such as the shape of one’s feet, do not influence their destiny. It is crucial to reject such unfounded beliefs and promote logical thinking.

2. Curse of 8: The Curse of 8 is a superstitious belief in India that associates the number 8 with bad luck and misfortune. In numerology, the number 8 is considered a powerful number but is often associated with negative energy, such as destruction, pain, and suffering.

This belief is so prevalent that many high-rise buildings in India, such as hotels and offices, often skip the 8th floor or label it as the 7A floor. Additionally, people may avoid purchasing items that have the number 8 in their price, such as Rs. 888, as it is believed that it will bring bad luck and financial difficulties.

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3. Keeping onions and knives under your bed will drive away bad dreams: In India, it is a superstitious belief that keeping onions and knives beneath the bed can help in keeping bad dreams away. The belief is rooted in the idea that onions possess the ability to absorb negative energies and repel evil spirits, while knives are viewed as potent instruments that can ward off bad dreams and malevolent entities.

This practice is believed to create a protective layer that prevents nightmares from infiltrating the sleeping area. Despite the absence of scientific backing for this belief, it remains prevalent in India, and many individuals still observe this practice as a means of averting bad dreams and negative energies.

4. You lose your wealth, if you shake your legs: The superstitious belief “You lose your wealth if you shake your legs” is prevalent in India, claiming that shaking one’s legs can lead to financial loss. This notion asserts that shaking one’s legs results in money flowing out of one’s pockets, leading to financial instability.

Although there is no scientific evidence to validate this claim, it is commonly held by older generations in India. They often discourage children from shaking their legs while sitting. However, such beliefs can lead to unwarranted fear and anxiety, and it is crucial to approach them with a rational and critical mindset.

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5. Crow shit brings luck: In India, there is a superstitious belief that crow shit brings luck. It is believed that if a crow defecates on you or your property, it is a sign of good fortune.

This belief is rooted in Hindu mythology, where crows are considered to be the messengers of Lord Shani, the god of justice and karma. It is believed that being blessed by Lord Shani through the medium of crow excreta can bring good luck, wealth, and success. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this belief, and it is merely a superstition that has been passed down through generations

6. Sweeping floors in the evening drives away Laxmi from the home: There is a traditional notion in India that sweeping the floors in the evening will make the goddess of prosperity and fortune, Laxmi, go away from the house. This myth is held because it is believed that cleaning the house in the evening can wipe off the wealth and luck that have gathered throughout the day.

To bring luck and success into their houses, people typically forgo sweeping in the evening and instead, opt to do so in the morning. In many regions of India, this superstitious notion has persisted over the years. However, this idea is only superstition because there is no scientific proof to back it up.

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7. Cutting nails or hair on Tuesdays and Saturdays brings bad luck : One superstitious belief in India is that cutting nails or hair on Tuesdays and Saturdays brings bad luck. This belief is deeply rooted in Indian culture and is believed to have originated from astrology and the Hindu calendar.

It is believed that cutting nails or hair on these days will anger the gods and bring misfortune and bad luck. Many people in India still follow this belief, and it is considered unlucky to violate this custom. Despite the lack of scientific evidence, this belief continues to be prevalent in Indian society, and many people still follow this custom out of respect for their culture and traditions.

8. Black cats are considered unlucky and bring bad luck when it crosses your path: Black cats are thought to be unlucky in India and to bring bad luck when they cross your path. The foundation of this story is the idea that black cats have a connection to witchcraft and are considered to be familiars of witches.

This deep conviction causes many Indians to go out of their way to avoid coming into contact with a black cat. Some people even believe that spotting a black cat portends impending disaster or ill karma. But there is no scientific basis for this idea; it is only a superstition that has been passed down through the ages.

9. Breaking a mirror will bring seven years of bad luck: “Breaking a mirror will bring seven years of bad luck” is a popular superstitious belief in India. It is believed that breaking a mirror not only results in seven years of bad luck but also represents a broken reflection of the soul, which can lead to seven years of misfortune.

The belief is so strong that people take extra precautions while handling mirrors and ensure they don’t break accidentally. To avoid bad luck, people often perform rituals such as throwing salt over their shoulders or breaking another object to offset the bad luck.

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10. Leaving a house empty for an extended period attracts ghosts and evil spirits: In India, it is believed that leaving a house empty for an extended period can attract ghosts and evil spirits.

This superstition is based on the idea that an empty house becomes a breeding ground for negative energy and that evil spirits can easily take up residence in it. To avoid this, people often leave a lamp burning or keep a bowl of salt and water in the house to ward off evil spirits. It is also common to perform a religious ceremony or have a priest bless the house before moving in to ensure a safe and positive environment.

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Conclusion: Superstitions are a significant part of India’s culture, influencing people’s everyday lives. Despite some of these beliefs appearing illogical, they are considered a vital aspect of India’s cultural legacy, and they have been passed down from one generation to the next.

Edeh Samuel Chukwuemeka, ACMC, is a lawyer and a certified mediator/conciliator in Nigeria. He is also a developer with knowledge in various programming languages. Samuel is determined to leverage his skills in technology, SEO, and legal practice to revolutionize the legal profession worldwide by creating web and mobile applications that simplify legal research. Sam is also passionate about educating and providing valuable information to people.

Essay On Superstitions

• Post category: Essay
• Reading time: 15 mins read

Set 1: Essay On Superstitions

Superstitions are the illogical believes that remain inexplicable, mysterious and strange because of lack of sufficient knowledge and outlook. However, today, superstitions are on the decline because of the spread of education, reasoning and scientific advancement. Yet, they may not be wiped out from society for a long time. Even educated people have their own superstitions. Emotional doubt, religious orthodoxy, blind belief in absurd rituals, customs and practices make people an easy prey of the superstitions.

Superstitions are not limited to a specific part of the globe, people, race or community. They are universal and found all over the world in various forms. They are more common among uneducated and scientifically less advanced people and societies. Superstitions are being passed on from generations, especially through religious practices.

Belief in supernatural powers, evil spirits, ghosts and spiritual healing, etc. have their deep roots in superstitions. For example, sighting of shooting stars and comets, the fear of number 13,cries of certain birds like owls and wailing of dogs, mewing of cats, howling of jackals and braying of the ass at certain hours are still regarded as warning in many communities all over the world. When some occurrences cannot be explained and understood, people start fearing them and give them divine, spiritual and secretive roots.

In spite of advancement of science and technology, the grip of superstitions on human mind is strong. Although India has seen many fast changes, but there are some people who are superstitious and have a strong faith in the local beliefs.

Most of the Indian beliefs exist under the impression of protecting themself from evil forces. These beliefs have no scientific reasoning and are unproven and false. There are many Indian beliefs that are absurd. Some people assume that Friday is not a favourable day for haircut while some think that Saturday is good for purchasing new things. Moreover, sneezing when someone is about to start work, is considered inauspicious.

Likewise, the crossing of the path by a cat, especially a black one, is regarded as bad luck. Sacrifice of birds and animals to please the Gods and Goddesses is a common practice among many communities all over the world. However, besides these, there are lucky superstitions too, which are regarded as good luck and fortune.

People have actually failed to draw a line between religious faith and blind faith. We regard certain hours and days as inauspicious and thus, consult astrologers to know the lucky days and hours to start our work and journey. Similarly, the time and date of marriage are fixed according to the advice of astrologers and the positions of the planets and stars.

The need of the hour is to cultivate more and more rationality and scientific approach in things, including those that are mysterious. We must be alert and watchful so that none of the superstitions can dominate our abilities of reasoning.

Set 2: Essay On Superstitions

Superstitions are rooted in ignorance and so is very very bad. Boasting is a bad habit and many people do boast. Most people boast about their riches or skill or possession which is harmless to the listeners. But there are many who boast about their ignorance and their closeness to primitiveness by being superstitious. The very sad part is that even the very educated type of people easily tend to believe in superstitions.

Many superstitions are very amusing. The fear of the number 13 is very common and very clearly seen in the topmost position holders in the country. Most of them wouldn’t dare start a new venture on the 13th of any month. If a cat and worse still a black cat crosses the street often times people just stop short and wait for someone else to cross the cat’s path before continuing on their way. Because it is supposed to bring bad omen.

Similarly the howling of a dog, braying of a donkey, the hooting of an owl and the howling of a jackal are all considered ominous. It is commonly believed that a worn-out horse-shoe brings good luck if fixed on to the door of a house. It is very sad indeed, that people don’t even mind appearing so ridiculous after conforming to such and many other superstitions.

At the time when small pox was a common disease, it was considered as the result of divine wrath or the visit to the house by a certain goddess whom they have to welcome. Advancement in medical sciences have resulted in the eradication of small-pox with no effect on the superstitions.

Set 3: Essay On Superstitions

People have a tendency of believing certain things that are not real, logical or reasonable. Many people believe that if a cat, especially a black one crosses their path then their work will not be done. However, there is no scientific proof to show that this is true. As soon as people see a black cat crossing their path, they turn around, go back and start walking all over again. Such people are the victims of superstitions and blind belief.

Almost all of us have some or the other silly belief in the corner of our minds. We can catch our silly beliefs by reasoning them. We must utilize the power of our own mind to think, understand and examine the situation. After this, we must find the courage to throw out the mindless belief from our mind. We must understand that the silly belief is nothing but a superstition. Therefore, superstition is a belief that is not based on reason or knowledge. Unawareness, fright and illiteracy leads to superstition.

As far as India is concerned, although the country has seen many fast changes, but there are people who are superstitious and have a strong faith in the local beliefs. Most of the Indian beliefs exist under the impression of protecting themself from evil forces. These beliefs have on scientific reasoning and are unproven and false. There are many such Indian beliefs that are illogical and absurd. The daily life of many people is led by beliefs and superstitions. For example, some people assume that Friday is not a favourable day for haircut while some think that Saturday is good for purchasing new things.

Different religious practices are also responsible for the spread of superstitions. The curved horseshoe outside the main door of the house is always said to bring good luck. In addition to this, some other illogical human actions that are assumed to bring good luck to a person include, crossing the fingers to fulfil ones wish and knocking on something made from wood. Certain superstitious things that are believed to bring bad fortune for a person are breaking a mirror, stepping on a cracked object and walking under a ladder. However, it has not been proved whether these superstitions actually bring bad luck to a person or not.

As early man had no scientific knowledge, he offered human sacrifices to please his deity. He worshiped various forces of nature like moon, wind, sun, fire and rain. He strongly believed that they controlled the universe, as they were sometimes kind and sometimes very harsh. Centuries later, witchcraft became a famous superstition in many European countries. People imagined that there were old wicked women who had sold their souls to the evil spirits.

Today in scientific age, slowly the evil of being superstitious is being thrown out of men’s mind. He is becoming more and more rational. However, our knowledge will not grow until all the superstitions are totally thrown out of our mind and from society.

Set 4: Essay On Superstitions

Man has kept on believing in some power unseen but present and working. It is this belief of his which has given rise to superstitions. They are unreasonable and irrational, though but they had been existing and they still exist inspite of all science and scientific development. They exist and are believed in not only in the East but also in the West. Man began to believe in superstitions when he had a feeling that he was at the mercy of natural elements. Some superstitions also were created due to social values.

Forces of nature had ever been worshipped. Even the Greeks, the Pagans – worshipped elements of nature in the forms of gods and goddesses. There were gods and goddesses among Pagans for every phenomena or force of nature. So has it been with the ancient Indian tradition. The sun, moon, stars, planets, even plants were and continue to be worshipped with the belief that they have the power to influence our lives.

‘It is the effect of some evil star’ that is what people say when some disease or disaster overtakes them. This is what even the people of the West have been believing. Shakespeare has made full use of these superstitions in his plays. Ghosts and witches have been made significant characters by Shakespeare in his plays. Calpurnia, the wife of Julius Ceasar, in Shakespeare’s play ‘Julius Ceasar’ sees a dreadful dream which foretells her of some grave tragedy befalling her husband. The horses are said to grow wild and eat one another, before King Duncan is killed by Macbeth in the play Macbeth. Storms blow before tragedy overtakes King Lead in the play by Shakespeare. All these happenings show how people believed in such superstitions.

Even till today the number ’13’ is treated as an inauspicious number in England; the salt spilling over the dinner table is treated as an ill-omen.

In India, a cat crossing the way while some one departs on a journey or some one sneezing at the time of departure for a journey are treated as ill-omens. The hooting of an owl or the wailing sound of a dog or the long mewing of a cat in the backyard of the house are treated as bad omens; while a pot full of milk or water being carried in front on the onset of a journey is an auspicious thing. Curd offered before the start of a journey or a fish presented before on the doorstep when one leaves on a journey are treated as auspicious signs in India.

Students going to appear at the examinations are still another group in India who are much too susceptible to superstitions. A visit to the temple prior to proceeding for the examination – it is time to turn to religion and beliefs. Candidates turn to a ‘taveez-wala’ a lucky stone. A boy going for the examination forgets his pen at home, he would not go back home but preferring borrowing it from his friend candidates going back. home once set out for examination is a bad omen. Even if caught in a traffic jam the candidate would not take the shorter route as the longer route has been auspicious. The stationery to be carried for the examination should be put in the ‘puja’ room the night before the examination in the morning. The girl had been doing so ever in the past and had secured ‘A’ grade marks so how could she give that up.

Such are superstitions they might be considered weird or wild but they are there and no science, no advancement of knowledge perhaps can take these away. It is, perhaps, a sense of insecurity or just a sense of faith due to past positive or negative experience which sets the mind to keep on believing in superstitions. They may appear irrational but, somehow, they are there East, West, North, South that has nothing to do with they have been there and they may continue to be even the most educated would also go with them and keep them at the back of their minds. there it Political leaders are found waiting for the auspicious day or the auspicious hour to file their nominations for elections or take the oath of office.

All this is even at the highest places when science has so far advanced. There are superstitions which have been created out of some Social Considerations. Sleeping at dusk is treated as a sign that one may fall ill. It is actually that one should not be languid or lazy in the evening. Do not cut the ‘Peepal’ or the ‘Baniyan’ tree – that only is a superstition to save trees from destruction. Dogs are very sensitive to natural calamities and become very restless before a natural calamity actually occurs.

These are some of the superstitions which generally people keep believing in the West as well as in the East. Human mind and human soul keeps on believing that there is some hidden power somewhere which governs their lives and this is the basis of some of these superstitions. The belief in them has gone on, also because some of the superstitions believed in have proved to bring about the anticipated results or effects. May be it is just coincidental but that makes belief in them all the more firm.

There is no logic behind belief in these superstitions but they have grown age-old and even all the scientific advancement of thought does not make them disappear.

But the less we subject ourselves to them the better, otherwise every moment of life would be on tenterhooks.

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Essay on “Superstitions” Complete Essay for Class 10, Class 12 and Graduation and other classes.

Superstitions

Essay No. 01

Superstitions are as old as man. The earliest men who had no scientific knowledge fell on easy prey to superstition.  Thus, illiteracy and lack of knowledge and capacity to reason out are the hotbeds which generate and perpetuate superstition.

Mahatma Buddha was probably the first great man to expound and explain the value and significance of reason which eliminated superstition altogether. He emphasized that everything should be thoroughly studied, judged and tested before being believed. Later, many other great men like Guru Nanak and Kabir exhorted the people to shun superstitions.

Many people may believe that faith is also a form of superstition. But, as we can see if we think deeply, there is a difference. Faith is a positive factor whereas superstition is a negative factor.

Earlier, superstition was rampant in villages. The belief in ghosts was common. It was believed that these ghosts operated at night and that they were visible to some people and invisible to others. Taking advantage of this many clever men burned into tan tricks and controllers of ghosts. They cheated the gullible villagers. Unfortunately, even at present, such clever men are at work.

There are many kinds of superstitions which are observed by common people. The throbbing of eyes, a cat crossing our way, coming across a Brahmin-all these are believed to be inauspicious. The cawing of a crow indicated the possibility of a guest visiting our house that day. Similarly, if we come across a sweeper early in the morning, it is considered to be auspicious.

We should try to develop a scientific spirit of mind and judge everything on the basis of reason.

Essay No. 02

Superstitions are widespread. They are found throughout the world among people in some form or the other. They more prevalent among illiterate and uneducated people. With the advancement of knowledge, learning and science, they are gradually losing ground, yet they hold their sway even among educated people of the society.

A belief based on ignorance or fear is a superstition. A superstition is never rational. It is always against the known laws of science and reasoning. Superstitions have many forms and practices. Beliefs in charms, omens, super-natural powers and beings, etc., have their roots in superstitions. What is mysterious, unknown, and inexplicable generally because fear, and fear in its turn generates superstitions and blind-beliefs.

Thus, they originate and thrive on human ignorance’s and blind-faith in things mysterious and unknown. Psychologically, the sense of insecurity, fear of ill luck and the dread of inexplicable forces in nature give birth to superstitions. Superstitions may differ from place to place, community to community and country to country, yet they have common origins. They originate from fear and lack of knowledge of things. When some phenomena cannot be explained and understood, people start fearing them and assign them divine and mysterious origins. In ancient times all races and people were governed by superstitions.

Superstitions found rich and fertile soil in human ignorance and lack of scientific knowledge. The less a race is enlightened, the more it tends to be superstitious. Some vested interests like priestly class, etc., also exercise a great influence in spreading and maintaining superstitions. Many of our religious rituals and rites are blind beliefs and tricks played by the priests, etc., on the gullible people.

The superstitions have caused mankind a lot of positive harm. The hold of superstitions on mankind is still strong. In spite of advancement of science and technology people suffer from superstitions and complexes born out of them. Take, for example, the dread of the number “13” in the West. They regard it the most unlucky number. They avoid it at any cost because they think it ominous and fatalistic. It is a taboo for them. This superstition has its origin in the last Supper of Christ. When Christ supped last, there were 13 persons, and soon after that Christ was crucified.

Because of these superstitions many godmen priests, so-called astrologers, palmists and occultists are having roaring business. The gullible and superstitious people throng their shops and willingly get duped. Superstitions have various forms and manifestations. At some places it can be seen in the worship of snakes, animals, trees and the practice of witch crafts. At others it is observed in the form of animal and human sacrifices. Sometimes a superstitious person does not hesitate even in sacrificing his own son or daughter to propitiate a god or goddess. There is no limit a. superstitious person can stoop to. Much of bigotry and fanaticism have their roots in our superstitions. Many times a woman is burnt alive as a witch or sorceress. It reminds us of Jaon of Arc of France who was burnt to death because she was considered a witch by the invading English army.

In many villages and towns there are houses, places, trees and caverns believed to be haunted by ghosts. The graveyards are supposed to be frequented by these spirits, and should therefore be avoided, at night and at odd hours. If anybody dares to go there at odd hours, he or she is bound to be possessed by the evil spirits. The only remedy available is rationality and scientific temper. The more the knowledge based on facts, the lesser the evils of superstitions. We must eradicate ignorance, fear of the unknown, the ideas of existence of evil spirits through dissemination of scientific knowledge and enlightenment in order to root out superstitions from our minds.

In India there are many superstitions. Beliefs in ghosts, witches, omens, spirits, age old rotten customs and traditions are to be found almost everywhere in India. For thousands and thousands of people in India superstitions are synominous with religion because they are weak-minded and rationally not developed. They are victims of the superstitions and irrational rotten faiths in the guise of religion, traditions and rituals. Not long ago small-pox was considered as the result of the wrath of a goddess. Still in many villages and towns the goddess Shitala is worshipped as the authoress of small-pox. Similarly, sneezing at the start of a work or a travel is considered as an evil portent. The crossing of a cat while you are going for some work is also regarded as equally ominous. In such an event it is presumed that the work is sure to end in failure. The barking of a dog, the crying of a cat, the howling of a jackal and broying of an ass are also taken as ominous. But a man or woman, with a pitcher full of water, crossing your way, a sweeper sweeping the road before you, are looked upon as auspicious.

There are certain days and hours which are auspicious. The people of India have set beliefs and want to perform work accordingly. They consult an astrologer or a priest for an auspicious movement to start an important work or a journey. The time and date of a marriage, inauguration, foundation laying of a house, start of a business, etc., are fixed according to the positions of the planets and stars. There are certain inauspicious days and months when no good and important work can be undertaken.

For the Indians the sun-eclipse, the sight of a comet and a shooting star are very ominous. They signify some disaster or national tragedy to them.

“When beggars die there are no comets seen, The heavens themselves blaze forth the death of princes.”

Essay No. 03

Superstitions  had  their  origin  in  the  element  of  fear  in  man. Whatever  could  not  be  explained  by  reason  was  looked  upon  as an  object  of  terror  and  was  worshipped.  However  even  now, when  civilization  has  progressed  and  education  has  spread, superstitions  are  current  all  over  the  world.  Superstitions  reduce a  man’s  efficiency  and,  therefore,  should  be  done  away  with.

Superstitions  cut  across  caste,  communal,  and  even  national  boundaries People  an  over  the  world  have  superstitions,  though  they  may  differ from  country  to  country  and  region  to  region.  Not even the  educated  arc free  from  superstitions.  In some  cases,  superstitious  beliefs  are  very  deep- rooted.  In  spite  Of  all  evidence  to  the  contrary,  people  continue  to  hold  fast  to  them  and  allow  their  lives  to  be  regulated by  them.

The  origin  of  superstitions  can  be  traced  to  the  element  of  fear  (which  is anti-rationalistic),  the  urge  for  security  and  material  welfare.  Human beings  Cherish  a  deep-seated  wish  for  their physical  Well-being.  They, would  go  to  any  length  to  ward    Off,  real  or  imaginary, danger  to  ,their bodies  and  falling  prey  to  diseases  and  death.  Also  the  desire  for  success; in  projects  involving  material  welfare  is  so  great  in  human  beings  that  even  the  thought  of  failure  unnerves  them.  They,  therefore  believe in certain  superstitions.  Some of  the superstitions  involve either  positively doing  certain  things    or  avoiding  certain situations  or  happenings; Superstitions  are  a  legacy  from  the  Stone  and  Wood  ages.  The  primitive men then  did  not  understand  a  large  part  of  the  natural  phenomena. Their  reason  was  not  highly developed.  They  attributed  their  success  or failure,  or  physical  condemn  to  irrational  beliefs.  Also  superstitions  came into  vogue  through  repeated  coincidences.  For  example,  if  a  person  often met  a, particular  type  of  animal,  while.  going  out  on  a  mission,  and  each time  he  was-unsuccessful,  he  began  to  regard that  animal  as  a  bad  omen. Or  conversely,  success  associated  with  a  series  of  coincidental  happenings; also  created  a  superstition.

In  the  Western  civilization,  one  of  the  most  well-known  superstitions the  ill-luck  number  thirteen  is  supposed  to  bring.  A  person  getting  number thirteen  for  his  car  will  shudder  to  drive  his  vehicle  for  tear  of  accidents. TA  house  with  this  number  will  fill  the  inmates  with  fear  of disease  and death. But  such  is  not  the  case  in  India.  Also, in the  West,   passing under  a  ladder  is considered  unlucky. This superstition  also  is  not  current in  India.

There  is,  however,  a  long  list  of  superstitions  which  are  prevalent  in India.  A  black  cat  is  one  of  the  worst  omens. (In  the  West,  too,  it  is thought  so).  If  a  black  cat  runs  across  someone’s  path,  it  is  believed,  he either  fails  in  his  job   or  meets  with  an  accident.  Owl is  another  illomened  bird.  Hooting  of  an  owl  is  supposed  to  bring  disaster  in  the neighborhood  or  to  the  particular  house  he  is  sitting  on  at  the  time of hooting. Cawing  of  crow  announces  arrival  of  SOW  guests.  Wailing  of  a dog  foreshadows  death.  If  one  meets  a  Brahmin  immediately  on  setting out  for  a  job,  one  is  Most  likely  to  fail.  On  the  Other  hand,  if   one  meets sweeper/sweepers,  it  is  supposed  to  bring success  in  job.  (It  is  a  rather contradictory  superstition.  Shudras  are  regarded  as  low  and  Brahmins  as twice-born  high  caste    beings  in  Indian  society).  Looking  at  alt  empty Vessel  at  the  time  of  corning  out  of  the  house  is  also  supposed  to  bring failure.  If  someone  sneezes,  when  one  is  getting  ready  to  go  out  to accomplish  a  task,  he  is  likely  to fail,  People  don’t  like  to  be  called back  and  asked  a  question  when  they  are  setting  out  for  some  work. Women’s   braids  are  hung  at  the  back  of  vehicles,  sometimes  even  cars belonging  to  the  posh  people.  A newly-built  house  has  to  ward  off  the evil  eye.  This  is  done   by  hanging, on  the  facade  of,  the  house  an  ugly, fearsome  face,  usually  painted  at  the  back  of  an  earthen  vessel.

At  times, superstitions  are  stretched  too  far. Particular people  are  regarded as ill omened  just.  because  a  death  or  a  serious  crippling accident  took place to  a  family  member  after  they  appeared  on  the  scene.  In  the  Indian setup,  the  newly-married  brides  often  have  to  pay  a  heavy  price.  If immediately  after  the  brides  entry  into  her  in-laws  house  the  death  of her  husband  or  father-in-law  or  even  some  other  member  of  the  family occurs, she  is  blamed  for  it.  For  the  rest  of  her  life,  the  daughter-in-law  is subjected  to  taunts  and  torture  for  no  fault  of  hers.

Some  of  the  superstitions,  however,  are  meant  to  bring  about  social  good or lesson  the  pain  or  feeling  of  loss.  For example,  finding  of  a and  carrying  it  along  is  considered  a  sign  of  good  luck.  The  action, thus  performed,  actually  Proves  beneficial  to  satiety:  The  horse-shoe,  an otherwise  dangerous  thing,  which  could  hurt  a  human  or  damage  a  wheel removed  from  the  road  by  the  picker.  Similarly the  breaking  of  crockery  on  the  occasion  of  a  marriage  ceremony  is  considered  auspicious. The  superstition  is  again  calculated  to  lessen  the  feeling  of  loss  that would  otherwise  be  caused  on  account  of  a  financial  loss.

Superstitions,  to  say  the  least,  affect  human  conduct.  They  ,fill,  men  with unnecessary  anxiety  and  fear,  which  lead  to  nervous  strain.  They  reduce the  capability  of  men  to  perform  certain  tasks  or  delay  the  accomplishment of  jobs.  Many  a  man  go  back  home  because  they  have  encountered  some ill  omen.  Superstitions  sour  human  relationships.  Sneezing  is  a  biological need  likewise.  Asking  a question  when  somebody-  is  about  to  leave  for some  job  is  a  natural  curiosity  of  human  beings.

The  purpose  of  education  is  to  reduce  the  area  of  darkness  and  instill among  people  courage,  self-confidence,  and  thereby  free  the  society  from the  tyranny  of  superstitions.  Although  superstitious  beliefs  are  still  current, with  the  spread  of  education,  many  of  the  superstitions  have  died.  Since most  of  the  superstitions  hinder  positive  action;  the  elders  can  play  a crucial  role  in  freeing  the  youngsters  from  the  yoke  of  superstitions. They  can  explain,,  to  them  the  futility  of  believing  in  them.  Also  they can  set  an  example  by  themselves  not  falling  victim  to  superstitious  beliefs.

Essay No. 04

Superstition

“Superstition”, said Burke, “is the religion of feeble minds”. It is belief that has no basis in reason. It is the daughter of Ignorance and Fear. The word means, literally, standing over—standing still at a thing in fear and awe. Superstition, said Pascal, “is founded on fear or ignorance, and leads men to form false ideas of duty, to dread chimeras, and to lean on a broken reed.” Belief in omens and oracles; servile attachment to ritual, usage, form of words; and seeing the supernatural in every incident of life—all these come under Superstition.

In religion, superstition means irrational fear of the mysterious, and reverence for objects that are no proper objects of worship. Ignorant savages have no scientific knowledge of what we call the forces of nature. They think the sun and the moon, fire and wind and wailer, are governed by super-natural beings, who sometimes seem kind, but more often terrible and cruel. These they fear and worship, and try to propitiate them with offerings, sacrifices and senseless rites. And their imagination peoples the universe with imaginary beings—demons, ghosts and fairies.

A tree is judged by its fruits; and the fruits of superstition are all evil. It has been responsible for a vast amount of cruelty, misery and madness. In old times men offered up human sacrifices to appease imaginary gods. In the Middle Ages, the belief in witchcraft led to the persecution of poor old women, who were believed to be in league with the Devil. The Spanish Inquisition tortured and burnt thousands of innocent people, at the bidding of superstition. And even in civilized countries today, superstition produces narrow mindedness, bigotry and needless mental suffering.

Superstition is a thing of darkness; it cannot stand the light. It is a child of ignorance; it hates and flees from the face of knowledge. As knowledge increases, superstition decreases. Science, which has discovered the real forces of nature, has banished the old bogies of superstition—demons, ghosts, and goblins, and all the creations of fear and ignorance which once made men afraid. But superstition dies slowly; and even to-day silly bits of superstition still linger. There are still people who consult fortune-tellers, think the number thirteen unlucky, will not walk under a ladder, nor start a voyage on a Friday. As knowledge spreads, however, superstition will dwindle till it disappears altogether.

Essay No. 05

Superstitions betray human weakness, ignorance and fear of the unknown and mysterious. They are the irrational belief in things which remain inexplicable, mysterious of sufficient knowledge and unravelled because of lack scientific temper. Superstitions are on the decline because of spread of education, reasoning and scientific advancement. However, even educated and advanced people have their superstitions. It has also been seen that while many old superstitions are dying, new ones are being born. Primitive instincts, fears and beliefs present a fertile land for superstitions. Emotional instability, religious orthodoxy, blind belief in irrational rituals, customs and practices make people an easy prey of the superstitions.

Superstitions are not confined to a particular a particular part of the globe, people, race or community. They are ubiquitous and found throughout the world, in one form or another. There is only a difference of degrees. They are more prevalent among illiterate, uneducated and scientifically less advanced people and societies. Superstitions are being passed on from one generation to another, through religious practies. No doubt they are gradually losing ground with the advancement of rationality, scientific approach to things and globalization of the world, yet, superstitions may not be eradicated for a long time.

Belief in charms supernatural powers, ghosts, evil spirits, and spiritual healing etc., have their deep roots in superstitions. They are common among the people of all classes. For example, the eclipse of the sun and moon, sighting of shooting stars and comets, cries of certain birds like owls, revanes, and wiling of dogs mewing of cats, howling of jackals and braying of the ass at certain hours are still regarded as  ominous in many communities all over the world. The fear of number 13 is another example of our blind belief. All superstitions have their origin in the  human psychology of fear of ill- luck, insecurity and the dread of inexplicable forces in nature. When some phenomena cannot be explained and understood, people start fearing them and assign them divine, supernatural and mysterious origins.

In ancient days, all races and people were governed by superstitions. They found rich and fertile ground in human ignorance and lack of scientific knowledge. The less a community is educated and enlightened, the more it tends to be superstitious and backward. Some vested interests, like the Priestly class etc., also exercise a great influence in spreading, maintaining and generating new superstitions. Many of our religious, sectarian and family rituals and rites are based on blind beliefs, and tricks are being played on gullible people by the so-called godmen, priests, quacks, charlatans, astrologers, palmists, star and crystal gazers. There are many religious cults thriving today throughout the world only because of human ignorance, blind faith and irrationality. Even the developed countries are no exception. In spite of advancement of science and technology, the hold of superstitions on mankind is strong and man continues to suffer from these evils and complexes born out of them. In India, sneezing when someone is about to start work, is considered inauspicious. Similarly, the crossing of the path by a cat, especially a black one, is regarded as boding ill-luck. Like these ominous signs, there are lucky ones as well, which are regarded as harbingers of good luck, fortune and success. Man’s ingrained fear of the unknown and the inexplicable has invented ominous signs, portents and premonitions.

Sacrifice of birds and animals to please the gods and goddesses, and to atone for one’s sins, is a common practice among many communities all over the world. ‘Many women are still lynched because they are mistaken for witches. People still resort to magicians and godmen to exorcise the so-called evil spirits and their harmful influences, and are being willingly fleeced and duped in the process.

Superstitions are thriving in an organised way under various cults, religious sects, godmen, priests, and so-called prophets and representatives of gods. They are successfully leading the masses by the nose. We have actually failed to draw a line between religion and blind faith, bigotry and spiritualism and between prayer and useless incantations. We regard certain hours and days as inauspicious and so consult astrologers, priests and godmen to know the auspicious days and hours to start- our work, projects and journey. Likewise, the time and date of marriage, inauguration, foundation-laying ceremonies are fixed according to the advice of astrologers and the positions of the planets and stars.

The need of the hour is to cultivate more and more objectivity, rationality and scientific spirit in our approach to things, including those which are inexplicable and in some way or other mysterious. We need not give up our ideals, imagination, emotions and impulses and become living robots, but we must be alert and watchful so as not to allow these to dominate and dictate our faculties of reasoning, logic and analysis. Religion is certainly blind if not blended with science and reasoning; and, science is lame, unless guided by conscience and emotions. Our only hope is in sanity, balance and cultivation of scientific outlook and temper. 

Essay No. 06

Majority of people are superstitious blindly. Superstition is a sign of ignorance and backwardness. Thus superstitions do not have any place in science. But people not only in India but in other countries also are superstitious. The number thirteen is regarded as an ominous figure by people in some countries. Even the French architect Le Corbusier, who designed the Indian city Chandigarh, was superstitious for he did not create Sector-13, in Chandigarh. Similarly Europeans consider it lucky if they find a horse shoe on the road. Other popular superstitions are that the howling of a jackal, sight of an owl bodes evil. Some people believe that a journey undertaken in a particular direction, on a given time is inauspicious. Sneezing when a person is ready to leave is considered a bad omen. Similarly howling of a dog is thought to indicate death of someone. But due to the impact of science, people have started questioning popular superstitions. Science sees everything rationally and it will serve people well if they examine these things rationally. People should turn a deaf ear to these superstitions and only then they will progress in their life.

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Essay on Superstition

Have you ever discontinued walking through that road if a black cat crosses your path? What happened when you feel your left palm itchy? Have you ever crossed your fingers when feeling nervous? Does your mother give you curd and sugar before going to work? If yes, then surely you have heard about these superstitions.

Many people still follow these superstitions for good luck. To learn more about them, today we will discuss Superstition in detail.

Short and Long Superstition Essay in English

Here, we are presenting long and short essays on Superstition in English for students under word limits of 100 – 150 Words, 200 – 250 words, and 500 – 600 words. This topic is useful for students of classes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12 in English. These provided essays will help you to write effective essays, paragraphs, and speeches on Superstition.

Superstition Essay 10 Lines (100 – 150 Words)

1) Superstition is an illogical belief that something will bring good luck or bad luck.

2) Sometimes, people believe that certain numbers, colors, or objects can bring them luck.

3) It can lead to a false sense of security and create unrealistic expectations.

4) Superstitions can be found in many cultures.

5) Superstitions can motivate people to work harder and achieve goals.

6) However, it can provide comfort and reassurance when situations are uncertain.

7) Superstitions can help people to cope with anxiety.

8) Sometimes, it can lead to a distorted view of reality by neglecting scientific evidence.

9) It can also lead to a rejection of evidence-based knowledge.

10) For example, it is believed that entering a house through the back door is bad.

Short Essay on Superstition (250 – 300 Words)

Introduction

Superstition is a belief or practice that is based on useless fear of the unknown rather than on logical reasoning or scientific facts. It is an ancient form of belief that has been around for thousands of years and is still prevalent in many cultures today. Superstition can be a positive or negative influence on people, depending on how it is used and interpreted.

One of the advantages of superstition is that it can give people a sense of comfort and security in an uncertain world. Believing in superstitions can also help people cope with difficult situations, as they may feel that they have some control over their fate or that luck is on their side.

Disadvantages

The main disadvantage of superstition is that it can lead to harmful decisions and behavior. Superstitions can also lead to fear and anxiety, as people may worry that their actions will lead to bad luck or misfortune. It can also lead to a lack of critical thinking and discourage creativity. Sometimes, it can create a state of superstitious paralysis, where people are unwilling to take action. Superstitions can also lead to a reliance on luck instead of taking responsibility.

A superstition is an ancient form of belief that is still prevalent in many cultures today. While superstitions can provide a sense of comfort and security, they can also lead to irrational decisions. Therefore, it is important to remember that superstition is a form of belief and not a scientific fact and should not be used as a substitute for logical reasoning or scientific inquiry.

Long Essay on Superstition (500 Words)

Superstition and science have been at odds with one another since the dawn of time. Superstition is defined as a belief in supernatural forces or luck that can influence events, while science is based on the observation of facts and the formulation of theories through experimentation. Throughout history, superstition has been used to explain and predict events, while science has been used to create and explain the world around us.

What is Superstition?

Superstition is defined as a senseless belief or practice that is based on luck or fate. In other words, it is a belief in supernatural powers that influence our lives and the events that happen around us. This belief is often rooted in a deep-seated fear of the unknown or a lack of scientific understanding. Superstitions can vary widely, with some being harmless, while others have the potential to hurt our lives.

Origins of Superstition

The origins of superstition are unclear and have been the subject of debate for centuries. Some scholars believe that superstition is a result of primitive man’s attempt to explain natural phenomena, while others suggest that it is a product of the early religious beliefs of primitive cultures. However, the superstition persists today in many parts of the world.

Superstition: A Belief Beyond Logic

Superstition has been around for centuries and still exists in many cultures today. Superstition is an illogical belief that an object, action, or circumstance not logically related to a course of events influences its outcome. It is a belief in supernatural causality, which is a belief that one event causes another without any physical process linking the two events. It is derived from fear and ignorance and can be passed on from one generation to the next.

The Role of Superstition in Everyday Life

Superstition plays an important role in everyday life. Many people believe that certain actions can bring good luck or bad luck, and superstitions often provide a sense of security and comfort. For example, some people believe that carrying a lucky charm or engaging in certain rituals can bring good luck. Superstitions are often used to ward off bad luck and to bring good fortune.

The Effects of Superstition

While superstitions can be comforting, they can also have a negative effect on people’s lives. Superstitious beliefs can lead to irrational behavior and can result in people feeling helpless and powerless. Additionally, superstitions can lead to fear and anxiety and can interfere with decision-making. Sometimes, people may find superstitions fun and interesting, but it is important to remember that superstitions are not based on fact. It can have both positive and negative effects, depending on how it is used and interpreted.

Science has helped to counter superstitious beliefs by providing evidence-based explanations for natural phenomena. By providing logical explanations for natural events, science has helped to displace superstition and has provided a more logical way to explain the world. Therefore, superstition and science can be used together to create a better understanding of the world.

I hope the above-provided essay on Superstition will be helpful to you in understanding the effects, advantages, and disadvantages of superstition.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions on Superstition

Ans. Religion is based on faith, while superstitions are based on fear and a belief in supernatural forces.

Ans. Yes, superstitions can be harmful if they lead to foolish behavior.

Ans. No, superstition does not have any scientific basis.

Ans. People believe in superstitions because they provide a sense of comfort and control in the face of uncertainty.

Ans. Superstitions can come from different cultures and religions as well as personal experiences.

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Essay on Superstitions in English | Popular Superstitions in India essay

Hello friends, today we have come with the essay on superstitions. In this essay, we have discussed some of the popular superstitions in India and have told why and how does this superstition believes spread all around. So let us start with the essay.

Superstitions.

Today's era is the most advance, this sentence we have heard many times. Today's world knows what is science is working behind everything. Anything which happens has a scientific reason behind it this is what we are taught this in school.

But in morning whenever I read a newspaper there is at least one news on things that happened due to superstition believes. Due to these superstitions believes every day many people losses there lives. Whenever there is news on television on these superstitions topic there are mostly educated people who get trapped in this superstition activity. I don't know why it so!.

But whenever I see news on superstitions and when the video footage of Baba's who perform this activity are shown I just can't stop laughing watching at there act. They take kumkum and put it all around, and hit with the broom and keep shouting while performing some funny actions. Watching this I laugh so much that it starts paining in my stomach.

Our grandparents and parents always teach us good things, but I don't know why these superstitions believes starts for our own home. Like some popular superstitions in India are, taking down "Najar" or tying a lemon and chills outside the house or on the vehicles, If a cat crosses the rod do not directly cross the road, If a crow shouts on top of the home then someone will visit our home and etc... These popular superstitions believes we still follow even when we know they are not true.

I have heard a story, there was one village in India where a wedding ceremony was going on. There were many people who came to attend this wedding. Were there was weeding that house owner had a cat as there pet animal. When the Brahman was performing rituals cat was moving and disturbing him in his work.

Just because that cat can cause a problem as it was moving around, so the Brahman told to tie the cat in one place. As a result, rumors started spreading that in a weeding a cat must be tied. This is how the superstitions got spread.

Some simple naive people get in the trap of this superstition's believes. And then Baba's and Fakirs take advantage for these people. And then these naive people are looted in the name of superstitions.

Everything in these world in not fake nor everything we see is true. So it is important to believe in the right thing and stay away from the superstitions believes, and we should not allow anyone to spread these superstitions.

Friends what do you think of these superstitions believes do tell us in the comment section below.

This essay on Superstitions can be used by students of class 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th for there educational purpose. This essay can also be used on the topics given below.

• Essay on popular superstitions.
• Essay on superstitions in India

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Essay on Superstitions in India in English

Superstition is the belief that certain events, words or practices bring good luck or bad luck. It is the fear of what is unknown and mysterious. It cannot be explained by science or reason and is considered a blind belief.

So many people believe in the bad luck that comes from breaking a mirror or choosing number 13. Some people also believe that passing below a ladder can bring bad luck. Others believe that carrying a rabbit’s foot can bring good luck.

Superstition is not new to us. It is there from ancient times. In ancient times people were not aware of the wonders of science. They believed in natural elements like Sun, Earth, Water, and worshipped them. They also believed in evil spirits and made sacrifices of birds and animals for them.

Over the years, Superstition has become a learned behaviour. It is practised on the basis of fear. For example, if children watch their parents or grandparents practising or following a belief, they will carry it on. This is how it moves from generation to generation without looking for logic behind it.

In today’s educated world, we should not follow any irrational beliefs. There is a need to question the beliefs and look for logic and science behind it otherwise we will be practising superstitions. Always question before you practice!

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Essay on Superstitions for Students in English | 500 Words Essay

December 20, 2020 by Sandeep

Essay on Superstitions: Human beings generally believe in unseen powers that may not be present at sight but possess working tendencies. These unreasonable and irrational elements that defeat the natural arguments of scientific development are called superstitions. From the east till the west, the sun, moon, stars and planets are believed to influence human lives and therefore worshipped like deities. The absence of logic and prevalence of age-old beliefs have strengthened superstitions in different parts of the world.

Essay on Superstitions 500 Words in English

Below we have provided Superstitions Essay in English, written in easy and simple words for class 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10.

“A belief which leaves no place for doubt is not a belief; it is a superstition.” ~ Jose Bergamin

Don’t cut your nails at night, wait for some time before stepping outside if you or someone around you has just sneezed, your left palm is itching? Wow, you’re going to come in possession of a lot of money! How many times in our daily lives have we heard things like these? I’m sure it isn’t very uncommon. But all of this is no more than mere superstition. Put simply; superstitions are sheer myths. They are irrational beliefs that people have since decades and centuries. They are based on people’s faith in luck, fate, supernatural powers, magic, fear, etc.

Superstitions do not arise from any concrete evidence or proofs, but instead are a cause of our ignorance and misunderstanding. How many of us are dreadful of Friday, the 13th? Or should I ask how many of us aren’t? The reason why Friday, the 13th is considered to be the unluckiest day is because of two reasons. First, it is believed that if 13 people dine together, then one of them is bound to die within the next year. And second, people believe that Jesus was crucified on a Friday. All this has led to a great build-up of not so great superstition.

Because of the evil associated with the number 13, there are many buildings that do not label the 13th floor and also there aren’t many sports players who like to take up a jersey with the number 13 written on it. Besides other things that can bring us bad luck, breaking a mirror is considered to be the most significant. It was first believed by Egyptians and has now spread throughout the world. It is said that breaking a mirror brings you 7 years of bad luck. Why 7 years? The reason behind it is that it takes the body 7 years- time to renew itself, i.e. all of its cells.

A common superstition that is believed across India is to never go near a Peepal tree at night. It is believed that ghosts hover around it in the dark, and if you sleep under it or rest under its branches during the night-time, you will end up dead. We say we are a progressing country but with these kinds of beliefs? I guess not. Numerous causes lead to superstitions securing a place in the minds of individuals, but the most substantial reason for it is illiteracy. This is why they are more widespread in rural areas. Superstitions are just passed like ancestral property from one generation to the other. They are not questioned; they are simply accepted and believed in.

Some people also start believing in superstitions because of convenience. For example, a student walking to his school sees a black cat cross his path in the morning. He then later finds out that he failed his mathematics exam. The reason for him failing is that he did not study properly or seriously. But instead, he might end up thinking and telling others that his failure is attributable to the fact that a black cat crossed his way earlier in the day. This gives him a chance to put the blame on something else rather than to own up to the fact that he just didn’t study well enough.

One shouldn’t become a slave to superstition. Instead, take your luck in your own hands. These are baseless beliefs that have been inculcated in us from ages. It is time we shatter them and believe more in things that have a scientific standing. There are plenty of ways to overcome superstitions. The first way includes a change in one’s mindset. You should think that you and only you are responsible for carving out your own future.

Essay on Superstitions in India

Superstition refers to the excessive belief and ‘blind faith’ for the supernatural. It is the belief in some customs, rites and rituals that are usually baseless and without any reason.

Meaning of Superstition

There are many things in Nature which are beyond human knowledge. We try to understand the mystery of Nature. But there are still many things in the world of Nature which cannot be explained through reasoning. We consider them the wishes of unseen power. We give fanciful causes for happenings which we cannot explain.

There are many natural events which are said to be due to supernatural forces. These beliefs in supernatural forces is known as Superstition. Our logic fails and reasoning does not satisfy us.

Superstition in India

In India, the pundits and Sanskritic scholars set some taboos or inhibitions of human behaviour, such as:

• Carrying eggs, oil and many such articles during journey was regarded as inauspicious.
• Journeys away from home were strictly codified for the seven days of the week.
• The newly initiated ‘brahmcharis’ were strictly forbidden to see the face of the lower caste men like the scavengers.

These strict rules struck root in the households and were especially so because people were illiterate, unenlightened, orthodox and sometimes dominating.

Causes of Superstition

Superstition arises from ignorance. It is a child of fear as well. Superstition is generally a legacy of our ancient civilization. But it is strange that the advancement of science and modern education can not eradicate superstition.

An ignorant man cannot understand the cause of lighting and thunder. He invents an imaginary explanation for the happening. He thinks that some unseen power is behind these natural events. There are people who believe in ghosts and spirits. They also believe in witch-craft. They think that the power of mantras controls everything. So ignorance is the cause of superstition. Most of us are superstitious in some way or the other.

It, sometimes, survives even in scholars and learned persons. An internationally reputed Hindu philosopher may staunchly object to his daughter’s marriage with fine specimen of a boy who belongs to the opposite community. People are not able to overcome the traditional snag of the past.

Common Superstitions

Today we have learnt the scientific explanations for many natural events. But we are yet not free from the chains of superstitions.

• If somebody sneezes, we take it as a sign of something unfavorable.
• If we are going somewhere and a cat moves across the road, we become upset. We lose our confidence. We begin to pray to God for a safe journey. Thus we are always afraid of unseen forces.

Superstition in India is not based on common sense.

There is a basic difference between ‘common sense’ and ‘common belief’. The latter may harbor superstition or may not; it depends upon the degree of enlightenment within the society. But common sense has something to do with reason, logic and argument. It is a healthier tradition. Primitive society and culture followed customs, ritual and traditional practices. But today even rustic or illiterate persons are amenable to reason. They are often prepared to give up their blind and obsolete ideas if they are made to see reason in the changed outlook.

Many superstitions still rule the lives of the backward classes and tribal people. They are ignorant people. But when the educated people fill his life with superstitions, we hardly find any explanation.

To conclude, superstition in India is a sequel to fear for the unseen. It seems extremely difficult to erase out from the mind all considerations of a nameless fear, although it is not an unattainable ideal.

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