By Akanksha Arora

Copyright timesnownews

It is common in India to see seven green chillies and a lemon bound together and suspended at the entrance of houses, shops and sometimes even cars. It is also believed by many that this small arrangement keeps away the evil eye and drives away negative influences. But have you ever asked yourself why this practice actually occurs? Is it a mere superstition, or is there something deeper behind it? We spoke to Vaisshnavi Gupta, Founder of Nakshtra, Astrologer, Tarot Reader, Crystal Healer, Vastu Expert, to understand the same. An Age-Old Tradition in Indian SocietyLemon and chilli totka, also known as nimbu-mirchi totka, has been a part of Indian homes for generations. It is typically suspended from a thread and hung on the main door on Saturdays, Tuesdays, or Fridays, which are considered to be good days by many communities. The use of this combination is so prevalent that it is now a symbol of culture. For most people, it is as customary as lighting a diya or keeping a rangoli during festivals. The Belief Behind the TotkaAccording to traditional beliefs, lemon and chilli are asked to protect them from evil eyes, also known as Nazar. It is believed that when someone sees your home or business with jealousy or wrong feelings, their negative energy can affect your happiness, prosperity and peace. By hanging this totka, people believe that they can block or neutralise such energy, making positivity flow into their place. Why Lemon and Chillies?Experts postulate that the selection of lemon and chillies has no coincidental implication. Both are natural objects related to sharpness, bitterness, and pungency, qualities that are said to repel evil. The two are believed to confuse or frighten away evil forces, with the latter being unable to penetrate the house. In other folklore, it is also said that Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of bad luck, enjoys sour and spicy tastes. By presenting her with lemon and chillies at the door, she is content and does not go in, and peace and prosperity remain in the house for the family. The Scientific AngleWhereas many of the traditions originate from religious and cultural beliefs, others also attribute them to science. Lemons are concentrated with citric acid, and chillies have capsaicin. Before the advent of insect repellents, the juice of lemons and the strong odour of chillies could have served as natural repellents for insects and pests at the door. Experts Crack the SymbolismThe lemon and chilli totka is most often explained by astrologers and cultural experts as a symbolic act. Whether the forces are negative thoughts, other people’s jealousy, or just bad luck, hanging something on the door provides psychological solace to people. This ritual, according to some psychologists, also serves to alleviate stress. The belief that your home or workplace is protected can instil a feeling of control and optimism, which in itself draws good energy. Does It Really Work?It is a question that is commonly asked by many people. There is no scientific evidence to suggest that lemon and chillies can stop bad things happening or ward off the evil eye. But tradition is more about symbolism and belief than about quantifiable results. If doing something provides people with reassurance, assurance, or peace of mind, then it is doing its job in some sense. For some, it will be cultural, and for others, spiritual. Modern-Day PracticeEven now, most shopkeepers and businessmen in India replenish their lemon and chilli totkas on Saturdays. It’s something you find commonly placed outside restaurants, clothes shops, or even taxis and lorries. In urban areas, the practice is still followed not only as a ritual but also as a means of maintaining cultural roots. While some do it because they have got into a habit, others do it as a protective charm from negative energy. The chilli and lemon totka is not merely a kitchen essential item. It is an emblem of India’s rich culture, a ritualistic practice intertwining faith, psychology, and even a bit of science. So should you place lemon and chilli totkas on your door? It is up to you to believe. If it puts you at peace of mind and connects you with your heritage, there is no harm in doing so. Traditions tend to carry the unseen power of faith, and sometimes, that faith is all we need to feel safe and positive.