| Beliefs about Numbers
There are several theories about numbers. Number 'one' is sometimes
avoided by folks. They substitute it by the word 'first'. When measuring
paddy, the villagers say by 'profit' for the first measure in many
places. The name of the local deity is mentioned to denote the commencement
of measuring first measure. It is thought that, if the first attempt in
any venture fails, success is possible only after third attempt.
There is a feeling that '3' is not good number and people
avoid going in groups of three. Since any association with that number
is supposed to defeat the purpose of the journey. Some persons say 'six
plus one' to indicate seven. Number 8 has an unlucky sound and so in measuring
paddy, the villager says 'eight measures' and not simply eight.
Generally, people prefer odd numbers. In making donations,
a round sum is first thought of and a small figure added to
make it odd e.g. Rs.1001,5005
Several persons wait, until they can get
the number of their liking in the securing telephone connections or a
motor-car registration . |
