The Prevalance of Superstition and its Adverse Effect on Indian Society

Beliefs and superstitions are whirling the minds of people since times unknown. They might be silly and ridiculous for some but are a matter of grave concern for others.

No matter how technologically advanced we have become in this 21^st century, the practice of superstitions is still widespread in this whole world.

The beliefs are more firmly advocated by the families when they are about to begin any auspicious work or are commencing on a journey. The bad omen of being crossed by a black cat, the whining of dogs at night, eye twitching or hiccups are some of the superstitions that people strongly believe in and fear that something bad might happen with them in the future.

The youth culture of the nation is not much habitual with its practice but these beliefs are somehow being inherited from our forefathers and cannot be neglected altogether. Bound by family and society, we somehow have to adhere to their wishes and seek their advice on the matter.

Indian society is fast progressing but deep down in our hearts we still harbour the fears and dread that we might have to face something dreadful if we do not try to avoid the bad omens.

How is our society enduring the consequences of these superstitions?

These superstitions have been the cause of some serious havoc on individuals.

• Believing too much in these has caused mental disorder among many. There have been several cases of obsessive-compulsive disorder where the excessive thoughts have resulted in recurrence of actions among the individuals and chronic mental illness.
• Generally, women, children and animals have fallen prey to the outcomes of such awful beliefs. The sacrifices of the animals and even children, the ill-treatment of women and their neglect in health has been the major results of such beliefs. The occurrence has been majorly reported from rural areas where people are ignorant and rely on these beliefs on daily basis. Sadly, no other but the elders of the family or village are to be blamed who pressurise such gruesome practices on them.
• Not only in rural, but there are such cases in urban areas as well. There have been incidents of personality disorder among individuals who were found to be suffering from lack of confidence. Such mournful cases among youth are bad for a nation as they are the building blocks of its economy.
• Though health deterioration is the aftereffect of these beliefs, there has been a huge loss of money as well. People unknowingly spend a lot in such superstitious indulgence. Thus, along with being the because of mental instability, these superstitions have actually resulted in their financial ruin as well.

Optimism is what we need to maintain in our lives if we want to break free from the chains of superstitions, bad omens and barbaric beliefs. Educate people and try to bring down their power ruling the minds of people. The superstitions can never be totally eradicated from our society, but we can try to reduce their spread in our society.