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Turkish `evil eye' charms shoppers at IITF Times of India

27.11.09

NEW DELHI: One stall that is catching everyone's `eye' at India International Trade Fair was the Turkey pavilion selling the evil eye, also called the Nazar Boncuk. This glass stone, which comes in three hues light blue, dark blue and white is believed to be a thousand-year-old talisman that keeps greedy eyes at bay and has been charming Indians for years.

This is the 10th year at the trade fair for Cevhan Zamur, whose firm OriginalIstanbul Crystal makes the stones. Zamur said the interest and curiosity of customers has only increased over the years.

"In Turkey, wherever you turn your head, you'll meet plenty of eyes looking at you. It is common in Turkish culture to gift a Blue Glass Nazar Boncuk or the evil eye bead as it is more widely known. People slip them over the rear view mirror of cars, gift them to guests and hang them near the door at home or office,'' said Zamur. They are also worn as jewellery bracelets, necklaces, anklets, gold or silver charms, pendants and earrings.

Anything that brings good luck and drives away evil attracts people, said customers. "These charms bring good business, health and wealth. We Indians are a superstitious lot. It's with a lot of belief that I buy evil eyes and they have worked for me,'' said Geeta Chima, a housewife.

For others they are an attractive gift. "My friend had gone to Turkey last year where he bought a Nazar trinket and hung it on his door. It looks so exquisite. I kept telling him that I wanted one too. When I came to the trade fair and saw that the Turkish stalls had it, I immediately bought one,'' said Damini Aiyer, a student.

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