Covid uncertainity takes many Indians to fortune tellers' doors
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A peek into future
In his golden-hued office, decked out with peacock feathers and crystal balls, mystic healer and astrologer Sanjay Sharma is busy offering his clients a peek into their future as the COVID-19 pandemic has muddied their present.
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What lies ahead
Indians are flocking to astrologers, tarot card readers and faith healers as they seek to know what lies ahead and find solutions to current health, financial and mental problems in a country where coronavirus cases have rocketed to 3.3 million - the third-highest in the world - with more than 60,000 deaths.
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Money business
Astrologers, palm readers, numerologists and tarot card readers are estimated to generate hundreds of millions of dollars a year in revenue. Charges vary from Rs 100 for a quick session with a palmist to several thousand rupees for a long session with a popular spiritual guide.
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Prediction
Ajay Bhambi, a well-known astrologer and spiritual consultant to politicians, Bollywood stars and professional cricketers, said his business had risen 40% since the COVID-19 outbreak. He predicted India's COVID-19 crisis would significantly improve from March onward.
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It's raining money? Not everywhere
To be sure, not every mystic is flooded with customers. For example, Kripajyoti Nisha Singla, a cosmic healer who also practices hypnotherapy, said she has cancelled sessions because of a lack of demand.