Neil D'Silva

The Evil Eye and The Charm Neil D'Silva

The lemon-chili charm, or the nimboo-mirchi as it is locally called, is a fascinating part of Indian folklore. This charm is supposed to ward off evil. With that belief, it is commonly hung at the doorposts of homes and offices, in vehicles, and even in local trains and buses. Such is the popularity of the humble nimboo-mirchi! But, like all superstitions, there is a deeper question here as well. Is there any shred of truth behind this almost ritualistic practice? And if not, why are millions of Indians following this practice since generations?The Evil Eye and The Charm is an anthology of three short stories, all of which are themed around the lemon-chili talisman. But more than the common notion of this charm, the stories are an analysis of the credulity of human nature when dealing with things unknown.