Coping with Negative Feelings: My Strategies for Resilience and Balance

Coping with Negative Feelings: My Strategies for Resilience and Balance

Life, in all its splendour, is not without its share of trials. Negative feelings—whether born of disappointment, rejection, loneliness, or self-doubt—are as natural as the rising and setting of the sun. However, what defines us is not the presence of these emotions but how we navigate through them. Over the years, I have devised my own strategies to cope with negativity, drawn from personal experiences, philosophical insights, and my observations of human nature.

1. The Power of Reflection and Acceptance

Denying or suppressing negative emotions only lends them greater strength. Instead, I choose to acknowledge them. When sadness, anger, or frustration creeps in, I sit with these feelings, much like an old friend in need of attention. I ask myself: Why am I feeling this way? What triggered it? Understanding the root cause often diminishes the intensity of the emotion.

2. Writing as a Catharsis

The written word has always been my sanctuary. Whenever negativity weighs heavy on my heart, I pour my thoughts onto paper. Writing not only provides clarity but also transforms pain into something tangible, something I can make sense of. Whether through a personal journal or poetic expressions, the mere act of writing helps unburden my mind.

3. Seeking Solace in Music

Music is more than entertainment; it is therapy. Be it the soulful melodies of Mukesh, the soothing hymns of my past, or the meditative strains of Hindustani Classical Ragas, I find solace in music. It has an uncanny ability to elevate my mood and transport me to a world where pain is momentary, and healing is inevitable.

4. Engaging with Nature

There is something profoundly healing about being amidst nature. A walk in the park, a drive through the countryside, or simply standing under the open sky, gazing at the stars—these experiences remind me of the vastness of existence and the insignificance of fleeting troubles. The rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, and the gentle whisper of the wind often dissolve my worries.

5. Finding Strength in Spirituality

Faith has been my anchor in times of turbulence. Be it through prayer, chanting Sanskrit shlokas, or meditating on biblical verses, spirituality grants me the wisdom to accept what I cannot change and the courage to change what I can. I have always believed in divine mercy, which has guided me through life’s labyrinth.

6. Conversations that Heal

Sometimes, the simplest antidote to negativity is a heartfelt conversation. Speaking to my wife, son, or close friends often brings a fresh perspective. They remind me of my worth, help me reframe my challenges, and, at times, simply offer a listening ear, which is all I need.

7. The Joy of Giving

When negative feelings consume me, I often shift my focus outward. Helping someone in need, mentoring a student, or even sharing a kind word with a stranger brings an indescribable sense of fulfilment. The joy of giving creates an internal shift, reminding me that my existence holds value beyond my personal struggles.

8. Physical Activity and Movement

Exercise is not just about physical well-being; it is a potent remedy for the mind. A brisk walk, a cycling trip, or a small trekking adventure helps me release pent-up emotions. Movement has a magical way of shaking off negativity and replacing it with vitality.

9. Humour as a Shield

Laughter, they say, is the best medicine. When I find myself sinking into a pit of gloom, I deliberately seek humour—whether in lighthearted conversations, witty literature, or funny anecdotes from my own life. There is something liberating about laughing at one’s misfortunes; it diminishes their power over us.

10. Learning from the Past, Preparing for the Future

Every difficult phase I have endured has, in hindsight, been a lesson. Instead of dwelling on what went wrong, I reflect on what I have learnt. I remind myself that just as past troubles have faded, present difficulties, too, shall pass. With each challenge, I emerge stronger, wiser, and more resilient.

Coping with negative feelings is not about eliminating them but learning to manage them with grace and wisdom. The strategies I have embraced—be it self-reflection, writing, music, nature, faith, conversations, generosity, physical movement, humour, or life lessons—help me navigate the storms of life with renewed strength.

Life is an ever-unfolding journey, and though darkness may sometimes overshadow the path, there will always be a flicker of light guiding the way. The key is to keep walking.

A Celestial Confluence: Lunar Eclipse, Holi, and Lakshmi Pooja on a Sacred Friday

A Celestial Confluence: Lunar Eclipse, Holi, and Lakshmi Pooja on a Sacred Friday

The cosmos often orchestrates grand spectacles, but the concurrence of a lunar eclipse, Holi, and Lakshmi Pooja on the same day—a Friday—is nothing short of celestial serendipity. Such a rare alignment of astronomical, mythological, and spiritual events is steeped in significance, drawing from the depths of Indian traditions, scriptures, and cosmic philosophy.

The Lunar Eclipse: A Dance of Shadows

A Chandra Grahan (lunar eclipse) is a moment of cosmic interplay when the Earth positions itself between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow over the lunar surface. Ancient Indian wisdom perceives eclipses as times of transformation, introspection, and renewal.

The scriptures allude to the spiritual essence of lunar eclipses:

शशिनश्चन्दनं शीतं शशिनश्च प्रकाशिता।
ग्रहणेन तु तस्यापि प्रभा नश्यति निश्चलम्॥

śaśinaścandanaṁ śītaṁ śaśinaśca prakāśitā।
grahaṇena tu tasyāpi prabhā naśyati niścalaṁ॥

“The Moon, which is soothing like sandalwood and radiant, loses its lustre momentarily during an eclipse, yet remains unchanged at its core.”

The eclipse reminds us that periods of darkness are transient and that the brilliance of truth eventually resurfaces.

Holi: The Festival of Colours and Triumph of Good Over Evil

On the same day, the skies shall reverberate with laughter, hues of gulal, and the joy of Holi—a festival celebrating love, victory of righteousness, and the essence of life itself. Rooted in the legend of Prahlad and Holika, Holi signifies the ultimate triumph of faith and devotion over arrogance and tyranny.

The Bhagavad Gita reinforces this eternal principle:

सर्वधर्मान्परित्यज्य मामेकं शरणं व्रज।
अहं त्वां सर्वपापेभ्यो मोक्षयिष्यामि मा शुचः॥ (भगवद्गीता १८.६६)

sarvadharmān parityajya mām ekaṁ śaraṇaṁ vraja।
ahaṁ tvāṁ sarvapāpebhyo mokṣayiṣyāmi mā śucaḥ॥ (Bhagavad Gita 18.66)

“Abandon all forms of dharma and surrender unto Me alone. I shall liberate you from all sins; do not grieve.”

Holi is an invitation to surrender negativity, cleanse the mind, and embrace the vibrancy of existence.

Lakshmi Pooja: The Blessings of Prosperity on a Friday

Adding to this cosmic marvel is Lakshmi Pooja, a sacred ritual dedicated to Mahalakshmi, the goddess of wealth and fortune. That it falls on a Friday—a day already associated with her worship—elevates its significance manifold.

The Sri Suktam extols Lakshmi’s divine grace:

पद्मानने पद्मविपद्मपत्रे
पद्मप्रिये पद्मदलायताक्षि।
विश्वप्रिये विष्णुमनोनुकूले
त्वत्पादपद्मं मयि सन्निधस्तु॥

padmānane padmavipadmapatre
padmapriye padmadalāyatākṣi।
viśvapriye viṣṇumanonukūle
tvatpādapadmaṁ mayi sannidhastu॥

“O Goddess Lakshmi, with a face like a lotus, seated on a lotus, and beloved of lotuses, may Your lotus feet always remain near me, bestowing Your divine grace.”

Lakshmi Pooja on this day magnifies prosperity, auspiciousness, and spiritual enrichment, counterbalancing any inauspicious effects of the eclipse.

A Rare Cosmic Conjunction: What It Symbolises

1. Balance of Cosmic Energies – The eclipse symbolises introspection, Holi represents celebration, and Lakshmi Pooja brings prosperity. Together, they reflect the balance of darkness and light, loss and renewal, devotion and abundance.

2. Karmic Cleansing and Renewal – The eclipse encourages spiritual discipline, while Holi inspires us to let go of old grudges, and Lakshmi Pooja invokes fresh blessings.

3. The Power of Faith and Divine Grace – The legends of Prahlad, Holika, and Lakshmi reaffirm that unwavering faith leads to ultimate triumph and divine favour.

Rituals and Observances: Navigating the Day

During the Eclipse: Chanting sacred mantras, meditating, and observing cleanliness are advised, as this period is believed to enhance spiritual vibrations.

Holi Celebrations: Playing with colours, distributing sweets, and forgiving past grievances are part of the tradition.

Lakshmi Pooja: Lighting lamps, offering flowers, and reciting hymns to invite divine prosperity.

A Divine Opportunity

A lunar eclipse, Holi, and Lakshmi Pooja aligning on a Friday is a rare celestial harmony, offering a profound spiritual, cultural, and cosmic experience. It is a reminder that just as the Moon emerges from darkness, so too can we rise above challenges, celebrate life’s colours, and welcome divine blessings.

On this extraordinary day, may darkness fade, colours flourish, and prosperity abound!

|| जय लक्ष्मी || जय होली || जय चंद्रदेव ||

Drifting Beyond Time: Where I Lose Myself Completely

Drifting Beyond Time: Where I Lose Myself Completely

Life is often dictated by schedules, deadlines, and responsibilities. Yet, there exist rare and magical moments when the mind escapes its self-imposed boundaries, and I become utterly lost—immersed in something so deeply that the world outside fades into oblivion. These are the moments where time stands still, and I exist purely in the present.

The Hypnotic Pull of Music

Music is not just an art; it is a force that transcends the ordinary. Sometimes, I find myself lost in the gentle hum of a raga, the haunting echo of a flute, or the power of a well-timed crescendo. When I play an instrument, I am no longer just a listener—I become a conduit, flowing with the rhythm, lost in the depths of melody. Even without a harmonium or keyboard, my mind orchestrates its own symphony, recreating past performances and weaving new ones out of thin air. It is in these moments that I feel weightless, unshackled from time itself.

The Written Word: A Portal to Other Worlds

Writing is where my thoughts take flight, unhindered by logic or restraint. When I sit down to write—whether a blog, a poem, or an analytical piece—everything else fades away. Words become brushstrokes on an unseen canvas, shaping emotions, memories, and dreams. Sometimes, a single sentence demands perfection, refusing to let go until it aligns with the rhythm of my thoughts. Other times, ideas pour out in an unrelenting flood, as if the universe itself is dictating through me. Hours pass unnoticed, and I emerge from the trance-like state, astonished at how much has unfolded.

The Electrifying Power of Conversations

A great conversation can be a voyage in itself. When ideas are exchanged with passion and depth, the world beyond the discussion ceases to exist. Whether debating philosophy, dissecting history, or unearthing the hidden layers of mythology, I become completely absorbed in the intellectual dance. Words are not just spoken; they are felt, explored, and dissected, leading to discoveries that linger long after the dialogue ends. The beauty of such discussions is that they rarely lead to conclusions—only to more questions, ensuring the mind remains forever restless and curious.

The Thrill of the Open Road

There is something deeply liberating about setting off on a journey with no rigid itinerary—just the road ahead and the endless sky above. Driving through unfamiliar landscapes, watching the scenery shift, and feeling the wind rush through the open windows is an unparalleled experience. With no distractions, my mind wanders freely, shaping new ideas, revisiting old memories, and embracing the raw thrill of the unknown. In those moments, I am not just travelling—I am unearthing new dimensions of myself.

The Elemental Dance of Water and Wind

Few things mesmerise me as much as water in motion. The rhythmic crashing of waves, the delicate ripples in a quiet lake, or the untamed rush of a mountain stream—each has a hypnotic quality that lulls me into a trance. The wind, too, possesses a mysterious allure. Whether it’s the playful breeze rustling through treetops or the unyielding force of a storm, it whispers secrets only the soul can understand. In these moments, I don’t just observe nature—I become a part of its ceaseless rhythm.

The Lost Art of Stillness

Amidst all these pursuits, there is one more place where I disappear—into stillness itself. Not in the form of structured meditation or guided breathing exercises, but in those quiet, unexpected pauses where I simply exist. It could be the hush of dawn before the world awakens, the warm glow of twilight stretching across the horizon, or the silent company of an old book. These moments, devoid of movement or thought, are paradoxically the most profound. In losing myself to stillness, I often find the most clarity.

The Beauty of Getting Lost

To lose oneself is often seen as a misstep, a lapse in control. But I have come to realise that true fulfilment lies in these very moments—where passion eclipses logic, time dissolves, and I exist in my purest form. In music, in writing, in journeys, in nature, and in silence—I lose myself, only to discover more of who I truly am.

And you? Where do you disappear when the world fades away?

The Great Mutton Mirage: A Culinary Tragedy

The Great Mutton Mirage: A Culinary Tragedy

Wednesday, the 12th of March 2025, was a day destined to be etched in our memories—not for any momentous achievement, but for a gastronomic saga of Shakespearean proportions.

Having spent the entire day at St John’s Hospital, Bangalore, enduring a battery of routine check-ups, my family and I found ourselves utterly drained. The ordeal had left us famished, fatigued, and faintly irritable. My grandchildren, deprived of their afternoon nap, were on the brink of a tantrum. My wife, wearied by the ceaseless poking and prodding of medical examinations, could scarcely keep her eyes open. My son, the unwavering chauffeur, navigated the chaotic Bangalore traffic with the singular mission of finding a decent place to restore our spirits and, more crucially, our stomachs.

At long last, we arrived at a modest yet seemingly inviting restaurant. It was not the Ritz, but in our state of desperation, it appeared as grand as a palace.

A Promising Beginning

Eager to break our fast, we ordered with careful precision—chicken sweet corn soup for the ladies, a refreshing fruit juice for my grandson, and, for the men who had braved the day, a much-needed vodka with lemonade. Accompanying these were crispy vegetable pakoras and perfectly roasted chicken, a combination that swiftly revived our spirits and reinvigorated our weary bodies.

With our appetites now whetted, we turned to the pièce de résistance—the main course, for which we ordered Mutton Rogan Josh, Tandoori Chapati lavishly smothered in butter, and a fresh, crisp salad. The very thought of the aromatic mutton, slow-cooked to perfection, had us salivating in eager anticipation.

And then, as in every great tragedy, came the first blow.

The First Betrayal

The waiter returned, his expression bearing the weight of a man about to deliver ill tidings to a noble house.

“Sir, I regret to inform you… the mutton is finished.”

We were stunned into silence. Finished? How could it be finished? Had we not dreamt of it, spoken of it, longed for it? Disappointed, yet unwilling to let our evening be entirely ruined, we conceded defeat and settled for Dal Fry and Cumin Potato—a humble, vegetarian compromise that was as exciting as a tax audit.

But just as we were preparing to swallow this bitter pill, the waiter returned with a glimmer of hope.

“Sir, if you are willing to wait for thirty minutes, we can arrange for mutton.”

Ah! A reprieve! A second chance! Hope flared a new in our hearts. Of course, we would wait! Thirty minutes was but a trifling inconvenience in the grand pursuit of culinary bliss. And so, we settled in with another round of drinks, indulging in lively conversation, our expectations rising with every passing moment.

The Grand Tragedy

Thirty minutes later, the waiter returned once more. But something in his demeanour told us that all was not well.

“Sir, I deeply apologise… but the mutton that was being prepared… has been burnt.”

Burnt. Ruined. Reduced to an unrecognisable heap of culinary ashes.

At that moment, time stood still. Forks were lowered, smiles evaporated, and an air of universal disappointment enveloped our table. My wife cast a forlorn glance at the kitchen door, my son clenched his jaw in silent frustration, and my grandchildren—oblivious to the magnitude of the catastrophe—continued sipping their juice.

The unfulfilled promise of Rogan Josh left an ache far deeper than hunger. But what choice did we have? Defeated, deflated, and thoroughly exasperated, we reluctantly resigned ourselves to the Dal Fry and Cumin Potato. And while the food, in all fairness, was well-prepared, it tasted of nothing but the bitter disappointment of lost dreams.

The Moral of the Story

As we departed, we cast one final glance at the restaurant—a battlefield of broken expectations and charred ambitions. And in that moment, we made a solemn vow:

If ever a waiter tells you that mutton will be ready in thirty minutes, abandon all hope and run.

Tags:

#CulinaryTragedy #MuttonMisfortune #FoodFiasco #DiningDisasters #HilariousHospitality #MeatyMirage #BangaloreEats

March: The Month of Rebirth, Revolutions, and Reflections

March: The Month of Rebirth, Revolutions, and Reflections

As the third month of the year arrives, March carries a distinct air of transition. It bridges winter and spring, darkness and light, dormancy and renewal. From ancient mythology to modern revolutions, from the blossoming of flowers to the raging of historical battles, March is a month that demands attention. It has inspired poets, challenged rulers, and dictated the rhythms of nature. Let us embark on a journey through the heart of March, exploring its origins, historical significance, philosophical depth, astronomical wonders, and literary charm.

Origins and Etymology

The name ‘March’ finds its roots in Mars, the Roman god of war. Originally, in the ancient Roman calendar, March was the first month of the year. It marked the beginning of military campaigns, a time when soldiers marched forth after the cold, dormant months. Even today, the echoes of its martial origins remain in our language—words like “marching orders” and “on the warpath” stem from this historical association.

In India, the month of March holds immense significance. It marks the arrival of Vasant Ritu (spring) in many parts of the country, a season celebrated in poetry, festivals, and religious traditions. Holi, the festival of colours, fills the air with joy, marking the victory of good over evil. The Indian fiscal year also ends in March, bringing a flurry of financial audits and assessments, reminding us that time is both cyclical and relentless.

March in Nature: A Dance of Change

March sees the slow departure of winter, making way for longer days and warmer breezes. In India, mustard fields bloom in golden splendor, mango trees begin to sprout their first flowers, and the koel’s call signals the changing season. In the Northern Hemisphere, the Spring Equinox—typically around the 20th or 21st—ushers in a balance of day and night. Nature awakens, birds return from their migrations, and cherry blossoms paint landscapes in hues of pink and white.

In contrast, the Southern Hemisphere welcomes autumn in March. Trees shed their leaves, preparing for the cooler months ahead. This duality—the simultaneous arrival of spring and autumn—gives March a philosophical depth, reminding us of the cyclical nature of existence, where every end is a new beginning.

March in History: Revolutions, Resistance, and Remembrance

Throughout history, March has been a month of great upheavals and turning points.

The Ides of March (15th March, 44 BCE) – Julius Caesar, one of the most powerful Roman rulers, was assassinated on this day, marking a pivotal moment in world history. Shakespeare immortalised this betrayal in his play Julius Caesar, warning us with the ominous phrase: “Beware the Ides of March.”

Indian Independence Struggles – On 12th March 1930, Mahatma Gandhi set out on the historic Dandi March, a non-violent protest against British salt laws. This 24-day journey changed the course of India’s freedom movement.

March 23rd: Shaheed Diwas – India observes this day to honour Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev, three young revolutionaries who were martyred in 1931. Their sacrifice remains a testament to the power of youthful courage against tyranny.

Across the world, March has seen revolutions and reforms—the Russian February Revolution (which actually took place in March by the Gregorian calendar), the Boston Massacre (1770), and the adoption of the Articles of Confederation in the US (1781). Truly, March has been a month when the tides of history have surged forward.

Astronomical Significance: The Balance of Light and Darkness

The Spring Equinox (or Vernal Equinox) occurs in March, a celestial event when the sun crosses the equator, creating equal day and night across the world. This event has been celebrated for centuries—Persians mark Nowruz (New Year), Pagans celebrate Ostara, and Hindus begin new astrological cycles.

In Indian astronomy, March often marks the transition from Magha to Phalguna and then to Chaitra, depending on the lunar calendar. The festival of Chaitra Navratri, dedicated to Goddess Durga, usually begins in late March or early April.

March in Literature, Philosophy, and Popular Culture

March has inspired poets and authors alike. William Wordsworth’s “I wandered lonely as a cloud”, describing daffodils blooming in early spring, reflects the season’s beauty. The novel Little Women by Louisa May Alcott revolves around the March family, reinforcing the theme of resilience and growth.

Philosophically, March embodies the concept of impermanence—the fleeting nature of winter, the blossoming of new life, the balance of day and night, and the ever-turning wheel of fate. March reminds us that transformation is inevitable, whether in seasons, history, or personal journeys.

Festivals and Celebrations of March

March is a month of vibrant celebrations across cultures:

Holi (India) – The festival of colours, marking the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil.

Easter (Christian tradition, varies in date) – Celebrating resurrection and renewal.

International Women’s Day (8th March) – Honouring the achievements of women worldwide.

St. Patrick’s Day (17th March) – A day of Irish pride, symbolised by shamrocks and celebrations.

March: A Personal Reflection

As a student, March meant exam fever, last-minute revisions, and the anxiety of results. As an educator, it marked the conclusion of an academic year, farewells, and fresh beginnings. Today, March reminds me of nature’s resilience, the power of history, and the excitement of the unknown. It is a month that tells us to march ahead—fearlessly, purposefully, and with hope in our hearts.

So, as March unfolds its mysteries and gifts, let us embrace its lessons. March forward, for the journey of life is always in motion!

Timeless Reels: The Films I Never Tire of Watching

Timeless Reels: The Films I Never Tire of Watching

There are films that entertain, and then there are films that etch themselves into the very fabric of our souls, compelling us to revisit them time and again. Some movies are like old friends—comforting, familiar, and filled with nostalgia. They evoke deep emotions, reignite forgotten dreams, and whisper timeless wisdom every time we watch them. For me, such films include Born Free, Braveheart, Noah, Life of Pi, and Sholay. Each of these cinematic masterpieces has left an indelible mark on my heart, and here’s why they continue to captivate me, even after five or more viewings.

Born Free (1966): A Bond Beyond Boundaries

This classic, based on the true story of Joy and George Adamson raising an orphaned lion cub, Elsa, is more than just a wildlife film. It is a profound meditation on freedom, love, and the deep bond between humans and animals. Every time I watch Born Free, I am transported to the untamed landscapes of Africa, feeling the weight of the Adamsons’ dilemma—whether to keep Elsa domesticated or set her free. The film is a gentle yet powerful reminder that love is not about possession but about allowing the beloved to be what they are meant to be.

Braveheart (1995): The Roar of Freedom

Mel Gibson’s portrayal of William Wallace is nothing short of legendary. Braveheart is a film that stirs the soul with its themes of courage, sacrifice, and an unyielding fight for freedom. Every battle cry of Wallace, every moment of defiance against tyranny, sends shivers down my spine no matter how many times I watch it. The iconic line, “They may take our lives, but they will never take our freedom!” has become a battle hymn in my mind, reminding me that true freedom often comes at a great cost.

Noah (2014): A Biblical Epic Reimagined

Darren Aronofsky’s Noah is not just a retelling of the biblical flood; it is a philosophical and psychological exploration of faith, destiny, and morality. While it deviates from traditional narratives, it captures the essence of struggle—between duty and love, between divine will and human conscience. Each viewing leaves me with a different interpretation, making it one of the most thought-provoking films I have ever watched.

Life of Pi (2012): A Journey of Survival and Faith

Ang Lee’s visually stunning masterpiece Life of Pi is a poetic blend of adventure, spirituality, and existential inquiry. The gripping tale of Pi Patel stranded on a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger, Richard Parker, is a metaphorical odyssey that unravels new layers of meaning with every viewing. Whether seen as a literal survival story or a profound allegory on faith and reality, the film’s message remains eternal—life is not merely about survival but about finding meaning in the chaos.

Sholay (1975): The Eternal Bollywood Classic

No list of rewatchable films can be complete without Sholay. This Bollywood epic is not just a film; it is a cultural phenomenon. The camaraderie of Jai and Veeru, the menacing presence of Gabbar Singh, and the tragic romance of Radha and Jai make Sholay an emotional rollercoaster. The film’s dialogues are ingrained in Indian pop culture, and the story never fails to captivate, even after numerous viewings. It is a tale of friendship, vengeance, and heroism that stands the test of time.

Why Do We Rewatch Films?

What makes a movie worth watching more than five times? Is it the story, the characters, or the emotions it evokes? I believe it is a combination of all these elements, along with the ability of a film to resonate with different phases of our lives. Each time I revisit these movies, I discover something new—an unnoticed detail, a deeper meaning, or a fresh perspective. They are not just films; they are experiences that evolve with time.

Perhaps, like great books, great movies are meant to be revisited. They serve as mirrors reflecting different facets of our own existence, reminding us of who we were, who we are, and who we aspire to be. And so, I will continue to watch Born Free, Braveheart, Noah, Life of Pi, and Sholay—not just for the stories they tell but for the stories they awaken within me.

Which movies have you watched more than five times? And why do they continue to mesmerise you?

Superstitions: Shackles of the Mind or Harbingers of Fate?

Superstitions: Shackles of the Mind or Harbingers of Fate?

Have you ever hesitated before walking under a ladder, avoided crossing paths with a black cat, or felt a sense of unease when a mirror broke? Superstitions have long woven themselves into the fabric of human existence, lingering in our minds like ancient echoes of forgotten fears. Are they mere relics of a bygone era, or do they still hold some uncanny influence over our lives?

A Personal Encounter with Superstition

As a man of science with a background in Physics, logic often dictates my reasoning. Yet, growing up in Nepal amidst a confluence of cultures—Jesuit education, Odia heritage, and Punjabi influences—superstitions surrounded me like an invisible mist. My grandmother would insist on sprinkling water behind me if I sneezed before leaving the house. “It wards off bad luck,” she would say with an unwavering belief. I chuckled at her faith in this ritual, but did I still pause for a second before stepping out? Perhaps.

Then there was the infamous “Friday the 13th” paranoia. I recall a particular Friday the 13th from my childhood when everything seemed to go awry—a bicycle accident, a lost school notebook, and an unexpected scolding from a teacher. Coincidence? Or was the number truly cursed? The logical part of me said otherwise, but deep inside, a tiny voice whispered, What if…?

The Origins of Superstition: A Historical Perspective

Superstitions, like folklore, have roots in history. Many stem from religious beliefs, cultural practices, and ancient survival instincts. In mediaeval England, spilling salt was considered bad luck because salt was expensive and vital for preserving food. The remedy? Toss a pinch over your left shoulder to blind the lurking devil.

In India, the belief that a lizard’s chirping at the wrong moment brings misfortune has its origins in nature-watching. People in the past, without scientific explanations, attributed patterns and omens to random occurrences, thus shaping generations of superstitions.

Rationality vs Belief: The Thin Line

Science dispels many superstitions, yet even the most rational minds sometimes fall prey to them. Athletes wear their “lucky” socks, actors have pre-show rituals, and even CEOs consult astrologers before major business decisions. Why? Because superstitions, at their core, offer a sense of control over the unpredictable. They become mental anchors, providing comfort in uncertain times.

Yet, when do they cross the line from harmless quirks to restrictive beliefs? If a student refuses to write an exam because a cat crossed their path, or if a couple postpones marriage due to an astrologer’s grim prediction, superstition turns into a shackle.

The Way Forward: Balancing Tradition with Reason

Acknowledging cultural traditions is essential, but blind adherence to superstitions can hinder progress. Instead of fearing a broken mirror, why not see it as an opportunity for self-reflection? Rather than dreading the number 13, embrace it as any other number. Superstitions lose power when questioned, yet they remain fascinating windows into human psychology and history.

So, am I superstitious? Perhaps a little, in the way most of us are—holding on to old habits, indulging in harmless rituals, and sometimes whispering touch wood just for good measure. But at the end of the day, I believe that our fate is shaped not by omens or signs but by our own actions and choices.

Do you have a superstition that you just can’t shake off? Or have you outgrown them all? Share your thoughts—I promise I won’t judge if you knock on wood before replying!