The Popular Religion and Folk-Lore of Northern India, Vol. 2 (of 2)

In this richly detailed study the listener is drawn into the world of northern India’s living folklore, where the fear of the Evil Eye shapes daily life. Through stories, traveler’s notes, and local testimonies, the narrator reveals how villages mark their homes, paint children’s eyes black, and perform secret rites to fend off an unseen, jealous spirit. The opening chapters trace the origins of these beliefs, linking ancient texts, Arabic traditions, and local customs into a compelling tapestry.

The book also surveys the myriad ways people try to neutralize the dreaded glance—using lampblack, intentional blemishes, or ritual washing of the feet before entering a home. Colorful anecdotes about pregnant women’s cravings, witch‑like figures, and the subtle interplay of envy and protection bring the material to life. Listeners will come away with a deeper appreciation for how superstition, health, and community intertwine in a region where the supernatural is never far from the everyday.