First person: Experts decode Indian myths, superstitions through lens of science

IN conversation with The Tribune, DAV College Principal Dr Rajesh Kumar and Associate Professor Dr Seema Sharma shared their thoughts on traditional beliefs and scientific perspectives.

Prehistoric man led a nomadic life, moving from place to place in search of food by hunting animals and gathering plant products. This hunter-gatherer stage preceded settled life in the form of civilisations that developed on the banks of major rivers in different parts of the world. With the arrival of civilisations, community and social life started evolving, giving rise to many institutions and practices related to social life.

Man, by virtue of his brain, began following rituals and practices of social, religious and cultural significance. However, he could neither reason out nor explain the scientific phenomena governing those rituals or practices. Despite this, he performed these rituals according to prevailing circumstances and conditions. This lack of scientific temper was mainly due to his preoccupation with more immediate priorities and compelling circumstances necessary for survival at that time.

Consequently, they began believing in some unknown supernatural power and developed practices that are today called myths and superstitions. These beliefs became an integral part of human culture and were passed down from generation to generation, either in the same form or slightly modified, across different cultures and communities.

In India, many of these myths and superstitions continue to be observed by a cross-section of society. Currently, some of the most commonly believed myths and superstitions in India are being examined through the prism of science and scientific knowledge.

According to the Indian belief system, Tulsi (Basil) is a sacred plant grown and worshipped in nearly every household. The prevailing myth says its leaves should not be chewed but swallowed to show respect. Modern science has revealed that basil leaves contain traces of the heavy metal arsenic, which can lead to the degradation of tooth enamel if chewed. Nonetheless, the leaves possess medicinal value, serving as an antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial agent.

Another widespread myth in Indian society warns against cutting nails after sunset. It is considered a bad omen believed to bring misfortune to the household and its inhabitants. Scientifically, this superstition may have originated from the lack of electricity and poor lighting systems in earlier times, which made cutting nails after dark risky and dangerous. Using sharp nail cutters in insufficient light could cause injuries to the delicate living tissue adjoining the nails, leading to infections.

The superstition that a cat—especially a black one—crossing one’s path brings bad luck is also prevalent in India and Western countries alike. It is commonly advised to wait for some time before resuming one’s journey on the same path. When examined logically, the belief is thought to have originated from the observation that a cat crossing the path swiftly may be fleeing a wild animal. This sudden movement acts as a natural indicator, warning humans to be alert and protect themselves from the potential danger posed by the chasing beast.