New Delhi, June 13 -- Friday the 13th is widely seen as a day of bad luck, with its reputation rooted in ancient beliefs around the number 13 and Fridays both being unlucky in some cultures. The superstition has grown stronger over the centuries, fuelled by mythology, religion, and modern media.

In Norse mythology, the number 13 is linked to chaos. A well-known tale speaks of Loki, the trickster god, arriving uninvited as the 13th guest at a feast in Valhalla. His presence led to death and disorder, setting the tone for the number's negative associations. This belief spread through Europe, and by the Middle Ages, the combination of Friday and the number 13 had become a symbol of misfortune.

Christian tradition also helped cement Friday ...