Dr Venganoor Balakrishnan

There is an age-old belief that if a broom and winnower are left together, it is harmful to the head of the family.
You may laugh at such beliefs as superstitions but a closer look will reveal that there is a psychological truth hidden behind it.
A broom is meant to sweep the house and keep it clean. On the other hand, a winnower is used to remove the chaff of the corn or to keep vegetables.
The winnower deals with foodstuff and the broom with dirt and filth and should therefore be kept apart.
Only in a careless and chaotic household will they be kept close by. The warning is that it will cause danger to the head of the family should be seen in this context. Foodstuff represents God’s grace.
Likewise, many people believe that the cow represents Mahalakshmi, the Goddess of grace. Our forefathers also believed that selling a cow on Tuesdays and Fridays was inauspicious.
We can read from this as the value our tradition gave to this gentle animal. In fact, the ancients set apart particular days for particular things and observances. This is intended to give the life’s business a system and discipline.
Likewise, three people going on a journey together was believed to be inauspicious. We can note that certain numbers have been considered inauspicious all over the world — three, 13 and 33 among them.
Let us examine this belief too. When two people have a conversation, a difference of opinion can be easily tackled. But if there is a third person, he will have to join either side and it will lead to a bigger quarrel.
It was believed that “even” numbers are better for a journey. Two can talk to each other and convey ideas. There won’t be an odd or unheard person in the group. This is what the doctrine aims at.
It is also our tradition not to eat while the evening prayer is on. This has been one of the beliefs spread across states. It is considered a sin if you dare to violate it. Evening prayer before the lighted oil lamp is necessary to bring in Goddess Lakshmi and to send out Moodevi the Goddess of inauspiciousness.
All members of the house are supposed to join the prayer. If one is at the dining table someone else will have to attend on him, and hence, both miss the prayer. Further, Lord Shiva’s attendants (bhoothas) are said to be on a visit to the earth at this time. Being at the dining table is considered an insult to them.
Now we know that even doctors do not approve of a meal at dusk. Chemical changes occur at this time in the atmosphere and hence it is advised to avoid intake of food.
Beliefs relating to the treatment of guests are also important.
Yasya na jnayate naama
Na cha gothram na cha sthithi
Akasmad grihamaayaat
Sa: Athithi: proohyate budhai:
(The one whose name, race or status is not known when comes to our home unexpectedly, the sages call him athithi, meaning the guest)

Indian tradition respects a guest irrespective of his wealth and status. We believe in the doctrine. “Athithi devo bhava” (let the guest be treated like a God). Hence one has to show respect when a guest comes to our house or leaves us.
The host is supposed to eat food only after having fed the guest. If the guest is in a hurry, the householder has to wait till he takes leave. It is an insult to the guest if you stay at the dining table without caring to see him off. Such etiquette is the very essence of culture.
Let us take another belief that children should wear anklets. Nowadays, these anklets are made of gold or silver according to the financial position of the parents. But in fact, it is of no use. However, if they can make the children wear anklets made of panchaloha, then it is quite useful.
The alloy here consists of gold, silver copper, iron and lead. Human body has around it, a circular flow of life energy. The alloy enhances this flow of energy. This positive energy influences the development of intelligence in a child.

— Dr Venganoor Balakrishnan is the author of Thaliyola, a book on Hindu beliefs and rituals. He has also written books on the Vedas and Upanishads. The author can be reached at drvenganoor@yahoo.co.in