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The Cost of Belief



At the Manglabar Mela, there were so many things to attract one’s attention. But my attention was even more drawn by a blacksmith in the middle of the pathway trying to carve rings out of a few old horseshoes that lay beside him. 

There was nothing extraordinary about his art – the rings are plain, a mere strip of iron jointed to form a circular shapes. There was no expensive jewelry studded in any portion of this ring. In all, it is a plain ring – plain, simple and crude. But some people’s eyes accidentally fall on the old man’s goods. I had no idea why horseshoe rings were in demand. 

“It brings in good luck and fortune,” the blacksmith was promoting his rings. “It is made out of horseshoe.”

Luck is what everyone needs these days. So, I bought this lucky ring. But my curiosity did not stop there. And I had to visit Mr. Google for an answer. 
      
Man shares a strong bond with his horse and it is the man’s best friend. There is a strong reciprocation of love between the rider and the horse. And that friendship lasts lifetime. A rider explores ‘mysterious’ places and gives a thrilling sensation. Thus, a horseshoe drives away all evil and provides room for fortune and friendship. Isn’t that exciting?

How expensive is fortune?   

The next day in the office I surprised one of my colleagues when I told her I only paid Nu.20 for my lucky ring because the one she bought from an astrologer, on his advice, cost her Nu.200. Exactly the same ring! Then during the lunch when we talked about the ring, the waiter heard about it. Showing his ring, he surprised us both. He paid Nu.10 only. And  exactly the same ring!



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