Superstitions and their origins - Check out some common supersti- Navbharat Times Photodhamal

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Check out some common superstitions and their origins.

Black Cats: Although some of us believe that a black cat crossing your path brings bad luck, it’s not the same the world over. In Egypt, for example, all cats are considered lucky—this dates back to ancient times, when cats were considered sacred. Our modern-day fear of black cats may stem from the Middle Ages, when it was believed that a witch could take the form of a black cat.

In This Pic : Superstitions and their origins

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Three on a match: This is said to have originated among soldiers, who thought that by the third cigarette, a sniper would have time to find them. Other’s say that match tycoon Ivar Krueger came up with the superstition to increase business.

In This Pic : Superstitions and their origins

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Horseshoes: There are several theories here. The first is that the devil appeared at the door of a blacksmith, who agreed to remove a shoe from his hoof if he promised never to enter a place where a horseshoe is hung over the door. The second belief is that witches rode on broomsticks because they were afraid of horses, so a horseshoe is a good charm to scare them off with.

In This Pic : Superstitions and their origins

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Bird droppings on your head for luck: This belief possibly stems from the idea that if you have bad fortune the tide will soon turn in your favor.

In This Pic : Superstitions and their origins

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Wishing on dandelions: Once again originating in Celtic mythology, it was believed that dandelions could cure diseases brought by fairies.

In This Pic : Superstitions and their origins

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