E-Paper
Youth turning to gods and astrologers
Kids in Rajasthan are turing to god just to score good marks.God is cool for today's youth
They are visiting temples, consulting astrologers and looking for 'lucky' pens the fear of career-making school board examinations has truly gripped Rajasthan.
Many boys and girls appearing in board exams seem to have suddenly become devout. Clearly, the students feel they need divine help.
At times, however, some of their beliefs in the supernatural border on the bizarre. Even students who mock religious beliefs and superstitions are not averse to cashing in on religious practices, if it is to their advantage.
Rakhi, who is appearing for her Class 10 board examination, says: "I start my studies at 6 a.m. after offering prayers at a nearby Hanuman temple."
She is undeterred by the cold weather. "I will go to any extent to score good marks. My brothers too did well in their exams when they prayed."
And matters do not just end with faith in god.
Some are consulting astrological experts over selection of their writing pens, and even seeking tips on the auspicious time they should depart from their house to the examination centres.
Says Pooja Mathur, who is appearing for her Class 12 exam: "These are my second board examinations. My family pundit has again powered my writing pen with spiritual powers through mantras. I am sure I will do well."
Several students are wary of cats crossing their paths when they are on their way to write their examinations.
A few even go to the extent of wearing a particular 'lucky' dress, consuming only some kinds of food, taking a particular route to the examination centre and even using a certain shampoo.
Psychologists say all this reflects the insecurities in the students' psyche.
S.S. Nathawat, head of the psychology department in the University of Rajasthan, feels it reflects a basic lack of confidence.
Manju Mehta, an eminent psychologist, has a similar opinion.
The students, she said, feel they could do with that little extra edge while pursuing their academic goals. "But it is harmful to waste time over such trifle practices instead of working diligently."
