Whether it’s applying a kala tika to a newborn, tying a lemon and green chillies to a new vehicle, or quietly celebrating a personal achievement, many people follow traditions they believe help protect them from nazar. Across India and in many other cultures, these practices have been passed down through generations and continue to be followed with faith.The belief in nazar, or the evil eye, is rooted in the idea that jealousy, envy, or even excessive admiration can invite negative energy into a person’s life. It is thought to affect one’s health, happiness, relationships, success, or overall well-being. Although there is no scientific evidence to support the existence of the evil eye, the belief has been part of cultural and spiritual traditions for centuries. For many, these rituals are less about fear and more about seeking protection, positivity, and peace of mind.Here are seven traditional practices that many people believe can help protect themselves and their loved ones from nazar.
Apply a kala tika
One of the most common practices in Indian households is applying a small kala tika using kajal. It is often placed behind a baby’s ear, on the sole of the foot, or at the back of the neck so that it is not immediately visible. Some adults also apply a tiny mark behind the ear before important occasions.According to traditional belief, the mark distracts or deflects negative attention, reducing the chances of attracting the evil eye. The practice is especially common after a newborn arrives, during weddings, or when someone receives praise or achieves success.
Perform a nazar utarna ritual
Many families perform simple rituals to “remove” nazar if they feel someone has been affected by negative energy. Different regions of India follow different customs.Some people rotate rock salt, red chillies, mustard seeds, or a combination of these around the person’s head several times before discarding or burning them. Others use camphor during evening prayers or perform the ritual with salt alone.Although the methods vary, the intention remains the same – to symbolically remove negative energy and restore balance. These practices are based on family traditions and personal faith.
Keep a nazar protection symbol
The blue eye-shaped nazar battu, or evil eye charm, is one of the best-known protective symbols across several cultures. It is commonly worn as a bracelet, pendant, or anklet, and many people also hang it at the entrance of their homes, in offices, or inside vehicles.In many Indian homes, black thread, decorative nazar battu, or other traditional protective symbols are also used. These objects are believed to absorb or deflect negative energy before it reaches the person or place they are protecting.
Begin the day with prayer or spiritual practice
Many spiritual traditions teach that a calm and focused mind is one of the strongest forms of protection. Offering prayers, chanting mantras, reading sacred texts, or spending a few minutes in meditation every morning is believed to create positive energy and strengthen one’s spiritual well-being.For many families, starting the day with devotion is not only an act of faith but also a way of inviting peace and positivity into daily life.
Keep your home filled with positive energy
According to traditional beliefs, a clean and peaceful home is less likely to attract negative influences. Many people light a diya during morning or evening prayers, burn incense or camphor, and keep their prayer space clean and organized.Allowing natural sunlight and fresh air into the home, avoiding unnecessary clutter, and maintaining a calm atmosphere are also practices many believe help create a positive environment for everyone in the family.
Stay humble and avoid unnecessary display of success
Many elders advise against speaking too much about personal achievements, financial gains, or plans before they are complete. This belief comes from the idea that excessive attention can invite envy or negative intentions from others.Rather than hiding success, the tradition encourages humility, gratitude, and letting achievements speak for themselves. Many people also quietly offer prayers of thanks after reaching an important milestone.
Surround yourself with positive people
Many spiritual teachings emphasize that the people around us can influence our thoughts and emotions. Spending time with supportive, kind, and encouraging individuals is believed to strengthen positive energy, while constantly being around negativity, resentment, or jealousy may affect emotional well-being.Although this idea extends beyond beliefs about nazar, maintaining healthy relationships and protecting one’s peace of mind are considered important aspects of spiritual living.Disclaimer: This article is based on traditional beliefs, cultural practices, and spiritual traditions. These practices are matters of personal faith and are not supported by scientific evidence. Thumb image: Canva (for representative purposes only)
