Nazar Battu amulet

This amulet with the face of a black demon contains seven chillies (mirchis) and a lemon (nimbu) and is considered to be powerful against evil spells. It is especially popular among merchants and shopkeepers as they believe it wards off Alakshmi, Lakshmi’s sister and the goddess of misfortune.

Legend has it that Alakshmi likes things sour and spicy. Thus, by placing lemons and chilies at the entrances of stores, the goddess will come to the door and after tasting her favorite food she will leave without causing any misfortune.