Unconventional Indian Customs

India, a country known for its rich and varied culture, is home to some of the most colorful and unique customs and traditions in the world. While many of these customs are undeniably beautiful, there are a few that may seem quite unusual to outsiders. In this blog, we will delve into the unbelievable things that happen in India, ranging from frog weddings to unconventional medicine. So, let's embark on a journey to discover the intriguing and sometimes bizarre aspects of Indian culture!

The Holy Cow and the Stray Dilemma

India is a land where cows roam freely and hold a special place in the hearts of the people. With over 305 million cows, almost equal to the population of the United States, cows are everywhere in India. The reason behind this is rooted in religion. In Hinduism, cows are considered sacred, and their slaughter is prohibited in many states.

As a result, when cows can no longer produce milk, farmers often release them into the wild due to the high cost of maintaining them. Consequently, India is home to an estimated five million stray cows, wandering the streets and sometimes even boarding public transportation. Despite efforts to provide cow shelters, the sheer number of strays makes it a challenge to accommodate them all.

Cash for 'Tache: The Mustache Mania

In the state of Madhya Pradesh, India, there is a rather unusual requirement for police officers - they are encouraged to sport mustaches. The belief is that a mustache exudes masculinity and commands respect, leading some departments to offer a bonus to officers who maintain a furry upper lip. This might sound strange, but research suggests that men with facial hair are perceived as more dominant and strong, qualities that can be advantageous for policemen. Thus, the mustache trend has found its way into law enforcement in this part of India, offering a unique glimpse into the local culture.

Frogs, Dogs, and Matrimony

Marriage is a sacred institution, but in certain parts of India, it extends beyond humans to the animal kingdom. In the village of Bhopal, frogs are wedded in traditional Hindu ceremonies to appease Indra, the deity of rain. It is believed that these frog weddings can bring an end to dry periods and bless the land with much-needed rainfall. However, the passion between amphibians can sometimes lead to unexpected consequences.

In 2019, a pair of married frogs was blamed for causing severe flooding, resulting in their forced divorce. In another unusual tradition, villagers in Eastern India believe that individuals born under the influence of Mars can rid themselves of an astrological curse called Mangala Dosha by marrying a dog. Though not legally binding, this unique ceremony is thought to ward off the curse and allow the person to pursue a future human marriage.

The Butt Gun and Squatting Toilets

When it comes to personal hygiene, India has its own unique practices. While many Westerners use dry toilet paper, Indians prefer water cleansing methods. Approximately 95% of the Indian population uses water to clean themselves after using the toilet. Some Indians opt for a simple water bucket and rag, while others have handheld bidets conveniently placed beside toilets. This method ensures a thorough cleansing, although there may be the occasional mishap.

Furthermore, in India, squatting toilets are common, and despite initial skepticism, they are believed to have health benefits. The squatting position helps the body eliminate waste more efficiently, potentially reducing issues like constipation and colon-related ailments.

Fish Prasadam: Unconventional Asthma Relief

In Hyderabad, the capital city of the southern Indian state of Telangana, thousands of people suffering from asthma gather every year to receive a unique form of treatment known as Fish Prasadam. This unconventional remedy involves swallowing a live fish that has been stuffed with a secret herbal paste.

The origins of Fish Prasadam can be traced back to the early 1840s when Bathini Goud brothers, a family of traditional healers, claimed to have received a divine formula from a Hindu saint. According to their belief, the fish, when swallowed, enters the throat and clears the respiratory passage, providing relief from asthma symptoms. The exact composition of the herbal paste remains a closely guarded secret, passed down through generations of the Goud family.

The event takes place annually during the Mrigasira Karthi, an auspicious time according to the Hindu calendar, usually falling in the month of June. People from all walks of life, including politicians, celebrities, and common individuals, flock to the exhibition grounds where the Fish Prasadam is distributed. The process begins with the organizers placing a live murrel fish into the participant's mouth, who then swallows it whole. After ingesting the fish, the person is instructed to refrain from consuming certain foods for a specified period and to follow dietary restrictions.

While the scientific basis for the effectiveness of Fish Prasadam remains controversial, the event continues to draw immense crowds every year. Supporters of the treatment claim that it has brought them significant relief from asthma symptoms, allowing them to lead healthier lives. However, medical professionals and experts have expressed skepticism regarding the treatment's efficacy, emphasizing the need for evidence-based medicine and regulated healthcare practices.

India is a country of incredible diversity, and its customs and traditions reflect this diversity in fascinating ways. From the veneration of cows to the mustache craze among police officers, from frog weddings to unconventional toilet practices, and from Fish Prasadam for asthma relief to countless other extraordinary rituals, India never ceases to surprise and captivate. Exploring these unbelievable customs not only offers a glimpse into the cultural tapestry of the country but also prompts us to question and appreciate the vastness of human traditions worldwide.