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 .