By Sucharita Dutta-Asane

“Look out! A black cat crossed the street!” And we wait eternally for another human being or vehicle to cross the street before we do. Why? Because the black cat making that crossing will bring bad luck. Isn’t this what we have heard so often? “Beware the snake charmer’s tune. A snake is sure to come out and spread its hood in dance.” And we shy away from the haunting music. “Don’t be a lemming in disguise. This is suicide!” The advice is a mark of concern but based on an age old myth. Such myths are part of every human being’s life, but they are just that—myths, with rarely any modicum of truth to them. At best, they could be stories to keep us away from mischief towards the animals. When they are not, take them with a pinch of salt and dollops of the actual truth. Here are eight such myths; let’s explore their truths.