Striped silver cylindrical taweez

Take a close look at what is being worn around the necks of many Indian men and some women. What you’ll find are India’s version of good luck charms. Based on the region of India you are traveling, the general name for these amulets are tabeez or taweez. Very popular among Muslim and Hindu followers, taweez necklace amulets come in a large variety of styles, usually made of silver, and typically worn around the neck tied by black string. It is believed to be a very powerful tool which removes evil intents of the planet while giving peace, good health and wealth. Also, taweez shows a person’s divine power when they tie one on their arm or hang on their neck. Some styles open on one end which allows for them to be filled with prayers or materials obtained after a ritual worship.

My silver OM and taweez from India

Another popular item is the Om or Aum symbol. OM: Sanskrit letters or symbol for the “sacred” Hindu sound OM called “the mother of all mantras”. The four parts symbolize four stages of consciousness: Awake, sleeping, dreaming and a trance or transcendental state. There are thousands of meanings for OM although it’s generally agreed to mean God, whether that is a higher power you believe in or God being yourself. These charms are made in numerous metals with gold and silver being the most commonly found.

Both items are relatively inexpensive and can be found online or from the main bazaar while in India. Any driver or taxi can direct you to a good starting place. TIP: Glue the end caps of the taweez if you don’t plan to use the inside chamber. After normal use, the cap(s) will unscrew causing small panic looking for them.

A little good luck around your neck in or out of India.