International Left-Handers Day: A day to celebrate the leftie

Though left-handedness was looked down upon and lefties were often told to use their right hand for their day-to-day functioning in olden days, things have changed now. Case in point, celebrating International Left-Handers Day across the globe on August 13. The day is dedicated to create awareness of the inconveniences faced by left-handers in a predominantly right-handed world.

What makes a person lefty?

Researchers believe that 40 specific genes contribute to left-handedness. Scientists also state that 75% chance of a newborn being left-handed is linked to the environment/lifestyle around the mother during her pregnancy.

The left hand in Hindi is called ‘Ulta Haath’, which literally translates to the opposite, wrong or bad hand!

Humans aren’t alone...

Studies have shown that certain species of animals and birds like kangaroos and the sulphur-crusted cockatoo (right) use their left hand/claw to eat.

- Albert Einstein

- Mahatma Gandhi

- Charlie Chaplin

- Martina Navratilova

- Lakshmi Niwas Mittal

- Leonardo Da Vinci

Did you know

Most left-handers grow up to be ambidextrous (are able to use both hands) because from a young age, they are taught to use their right hand for performing activities like holding a toothbrush, writing etc.