Finding what the future holds

Though a traditional art in India, fortune-telling is still looked down upon

Your fate lies in your own hands, metaphorically and literally.

Outside the Nucleus Mall, a Brahmin sits under an umbrella. After examining the dark lines on the palm and forehead, he says: "Within two months, you will get a charming girl and she will open the path of fame and success for you", and the moment he finishes stating the future he demands Rs 51 which vanishes inside his pocket in a jiffy. However, he didn't give the girl's name or location.

Sachin Dangatji Maharaj, master of a psychic parrot says, "Mitthu is not an ordinary parrot. It was born with divine power. I have little to do with this art and just assist and pass the message delivered by him."

Fortune-telling is among the most traditional art in India, which like other arts are praised, appreciated and featured in articles but, rarely has improved its position in society.

Compared to the use of crystal balls and tarot cards, parrots costs less and is also amusing.u00a0

Shobhit Mishra, who had approached one such fortune-teller, said: "It's flattering and entertaining. He said I am an intelligent and hardworking person, who doesn't get anything in return from friends and society."

However, Yayati Shinde (name changed), has no such opinion. On the advice of one of such astrologer, he had to make compromises. "He was a respected sage. He said my parents would die soon, so I must get on my feet quickly and that is why I left my studies and got into business. My parents led a comparatively long life," Shinde said with a smile.

For those reeling under perennial bad luck, fortune-tellers are a source of solace. "I am under life-long obligation of Maharaj Dhanpat," says Pune-based Doctor Dr Narayan Sharma.

"He made me believe that there are few facts which science can't explain. He foresaw the crisis my family would undergo and gave gems and bracelets for cooling down the angry planet Mars," he
concluded.