From Chillies To Charcoal: India’s Fascinating Rituals Against The Evil Eye

In India, the concept of the evil eye (known as nazar or drishti) is woven deeply into everyday life. It’s the belief that envy, admiration, or even an unintended glance can bring misfortune, illness, or bad luck. While some dismiss it as superstition, countless families across the country continue to practice age-old rituals to protect themselves. These customs are not only intriguing but also reveal the cultural richness and diversity of India. From lemons and chillies dangling at shop entrances to fiery effigies on rooftops, each region has its own way of keeping negative energy at bay. (Image: Canva)

Lemon and Green Chillies Charm: Perhaps the most recognizable symbol of protection in India is the string of lemons and green chillies hung outside homes, shops, and vehicles. This practice is especially common in North India. The belief is that the sourness of the lemon and the spiciness of the chillies ward off evil spirits and absorb negative energy. Once the charm has served its purpose, it is discarded and replaced with a fresh one, ensuring continuous protection. (Image: AI-Generated)

Black Dolls on Buildings: In parts of South India, you’ll often spot large black dolls or effigies hanging from new constructions or perched on rooftops. These fierce-looking figures are meant to scare away the evil eye cast upon new ventures, homes, or businesses. The exaggerated features of the dolls symbolize defiance against malicious forces, making them a striking sight in urban skylines. (Image: Instagram)

Burning Mustard Seeds: In Maharashtra and Gujarat, a common ritual involves burning mustard seeds or red chillies to remove the effects of nazar. The smoke is believed to carry away negative energy. Families often perform this ritual when someone falls ill suddenly or when a child is thought to be under the spell of the evil eye. The act is simple yet powerful, rooted in the idea that fire purifies and transforms. (Image: AI-Generated)

Kajal on Children: Across many parts of India, parents apply a small dot of kajal behind a child’s ear or on the sole of the foot. This is not for beauty but for protection. The belief is that the black mark distracts the evil eye, keeping the child safe from harm. (Image: AI-Generated)

Coconut Rituals: In coastal states like Kerala, coconuts are often used in rituals to ward off bad energy. Breaking a coconut at temples or during ceremonies symbolizes smashing negativity and offering purity to the divine. In some households, coconuts are rolled around a person believed to be affected by nazar and then broken outside, ensuring the evil influence is destroyed. (Image: AI-Generated)

Charcoal and Salt Cleansing: In Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, families sometimes use charcoal or rock salt to absorb negative energy. The items are circled around the person or object believed to be under the evil eye and then thrown away. Salt, in particular, is considered a powerful cleanser, capable of neutralizing harmful vibrations. (Image: AI-Generated)

Protective Amulets and Threads: Across India, amulets and sacred threads are tied around wrists, ankles, or necks to guard against envy. In Hindu households, red or black threads blessed at temples are common, while in Muslim families, verses from the Quran are inscribed in lockets worn for protection. These talismans serve as constant reminders of faith and resilience against unseen forces. (Image: AI-Generated)