An eye for an eye

Famous people are typically prepared to do anything under the sun to ensure continuing good fortune. The latest addition to their armoury is – well, the ‘Evil Eye’ itself!

Perhaps no charm is more well-known for warding off malevolent forces than the ‘evil eye’ talisman. The cobalt-blue ‘eye’ has been used as a motif in everything from jewellery to clothing, from manicures to tattoos, and even in home décor.
Meghan Markle, Kim Kardashian, Shilpa Shetty, Sara Ali Khan, and Janhvi Kapoor have all used the ‘evil eye’ motif to ward off evil. Shahrukh Khan is the most recent addition to the band subscribing to this practice. He was recently photographed with an evil eye bracelet on his left wrist.

Why do the powerful and famous go for this talisman?

Alemdara, a  brand inspired by Turkish symbols, explains on its website: “As per Ottoman legend, an evil eye on your person wards off jealousy from others. The symbol helps dispel negative thoughts and energy.”

The nazar amulet emoji has recently taken over the digital world too — it can be found in messages, captions, WhatsApp messages, Insta stories, and Reels. Everyone, from Gal Gadot in Hollywood to Ranveer Singh and Priyanka Chopra Jonas in Bollywood, is using it, regardless of age, gender, nationality or culture.

When the stakes are high…

“The attraction to evil eye motifs stems from human belief. People have believed in the power of symbols since time immemorial. The ability of the evil eye symbol to ward off hostile energy has been part of the beliefs of several cultures. Furthermore, the symbol has recently become a global fashion statement, with modern consumers wearing it in the form of bracelets, watches, jewellery, and various types of charms. Its distinct allure as a symbol of style and protection increases when the stakes are high,” says Vipin Sharma, chief merchandising officer, BlueStone.  
 
Impacting the aura

The symbol of the evil eye originates in Greek mythology and is known as mati in Greek. It was widely used by people in the Mediterranean region and West Asia before it spread across the globe.

“People in the public space often attract both good and bad vibes (evil eye), and it is impossible to keep track of this in the hustle and bustle of modern life. The bad vibes are nothing more than a type of energy that has the potential to negatively impact a person when their aura is weak and they do not practise regular self-care rituals,” says Sidhharrth S Kumaar, astro-numerologist and founder of NumroVani.

Vulnerable to bad omens

Contemporary designers such as Atelier Swarovski, Michael Kors, and Alex and Ani have used the evil eye motif in jewellery to create pieces that appeal to modern tastes. Caroline Scheufele, Chopard’s co-president and artistic director, wears evil eye bracelets all the time. The businesswoman who has worked with some of the world’s most famous people, such as Julia Roberts and Rihanna, is a spiritual person.

“Many people actively seek protection from the evil eye, also known as Nazar dosh. Evil eye jewellery is worn to protect against bad luck. Because celebrities are more susceptible to bad omens, they frequently wear the symbol to ward off the omens. It is best worn as a locket around the neck or as a bracelet on the right arm,” says Aacharya Dev, Co-Founder, VAMA, a virtual platform that provides access to services for one's religious and spiritual journeys.

EYE POWER

The ‘cobalt-blue eye’ symbol is the most popular of all the available options.

According to Sidhharrth S Kumaar, the power of this symbol is based on three facts:

* The ‘circle’ is a natural shape that exists in nature and is a source of 'universal creative energy' as well as the power of self-realization and oneness with the universe. It also represents a person’s ability to align their aura with the energy of the universe.

 

 

* The presence of concentric circles creates an “energy well” that acts as a cushion to absorb all energies that follow the person, and protects them from any negative effects. This also represents the nature of a ‘black hole,’ which energy can sink into indefinitely.

* The power of the concentric circles is enhanced by colour. Typically, white, black, and blue shades are used. These colour combinations form a magical magnetic aura ruled by Venus and the Sun, providing ultimate protection and the ability to bounce back using the energy of self-realisation.

BOX

* Meghan Markle’s “Visionary Charm Necklace” is inspired by vintage Asian coins. “These modern-day talismans are symbols of good fortune. The Visionary Necklace has  a blue topaz evil eye to protect its wearer from negative vibes. It’s got your back,” Edge of Ember,  accessories brand that creates timeless, personal jewellery, site notes.  
* “We are all of Middle Eastern descent, and in our culture, the evil eye talisman wards off jealousy and negativity,” explains celebrity jeweller George Khalife, who gave Gigi Hadid and Zayn Malik evil eye bracelets.

* Elie Saab, a Middle Eastern designer, had a couture line with evil eye motifs embroidered on gowns.
* Karen Lucille Hale, an actress, singer, and television personality, has an evil eye tattoo on the back of her right ankle to ward off evil spirits. “I have an eye that Dr. Woo just did. It’s the evil eye to ward off evil. I like tattoos,” she said.

* Actress Shilpa Shetty believes in the evil eye talisman. “I don’t discuss things ahead of time. I believe in the evil eye,” Shilpa wrote.

* Urvashi Rautela makes a case for evil eye lehengas.

* Katrina Kaif wore a light blue top with an evil eye symbol.

* Priyanka Chopra is loyal to her evil eye bracelet

* Bipasha Basu was seen wearing an evil eye necklace.