In old buildings in India, often small mirrors are seen, placed decoratively above doorways. This is done to ward off evil spirits, as it is believed that when they see themselves, the spirits will be frightened by their own appearance and flee.

The ancient custom is reminiscent of the use of bagua door mirrors in rural China (fig.). For additional protection, most houses in India will also place a statue of Ganesha over the entrance.

The principle is also applied on the saree, the traditional dress of Indian women (fig.), which is usually decorated with glittery flecks and bands, in order to turn away evil and bad luck.