Superstitions prevent social evolution

- Dr. Dinesh Mishra

The Country has witnessed termendous changes in various areas of development after Independence. But, I am sorry to say that the meanace of superstition could not be wiped out as yet.

Ironically, the number of cases related with superstitions in Chhattisgarh STate is also on rise.

Incidents like killing women in the name of their being Tonhi (witch) are common in remote areas of the State.

The situation is no better in urban areas and people here are also obsessed with their blind beliefs. Such practices stall progress of a developing society. I think it is lack of self-confidence because of which people move to superstitions practices.

It is really deplorable to see that even in this modern age people believe that bad women is responsible for their failure. It is for this reason that such gullible people fall victims to Tantriks who claim to have super natural powers and provide instant solution of all their problems. It is not just indicative of the people's psyche, but also that of the society's in general.

I persoanly do not believe in things like "tantra", 'mantra', 'ghost' or 'witchcraft'.

I am also of the firm opinion that people believe in miracles only, due to illiteracy, lack of scientific temperament, poverty and non-availability of medical facilities, Politicians can also be blamed for it.

They often visit Tantriks seeking solution of their problems. Their act has its impact on common people who follow it blindly without thinking of consequences. The mania of instant success has taken most of us under its clutch.

Avarice has compelled a big number of people to resort to some superstitious act. We cannot hope much unless such mentality is changed. In fact, most of the miracles shown by the Tantriks are generally based on some scientific theory. If watched carefully then every miracle can be defined on the scientific tools.

April 14, 2001, Hindustan Times, New Delhi.

as told to K.K. Das.