Palmistry, known as Hast Samudrika Shastra in Sanskrit, has been an integral part of Indian culture and spirituality for over 3,000 years. Its roots can be traced back to the Vedic period, where it was considered a branch of Samudrika Shastra, a broader study of physiognomy that analyzes body parts to understand an individual’s nature, destiny, and fortune. Ancient Indian scriptures, such as the Rig Veda, Atharva Veda, and texts like Brihat Samhita by Varahamihira, reference palmistry as a tool for self-awareness and predicting life events.

Indian sages believed that the palm holds the blueprint of a person’s karma and that the lines and markings reflect the cosmic influence of planets. This connection with astrology forms a cornerstone of traditional Indian palmistry, with each mount on the hand representing a planet (e.g., Jupiter, Saturn, Venus). The science of palmistry was meticulously developed by scholars who observed patterns in palm features and their correlation with people’s lives.

Palmistry from India spread to other ancient civilizations, including Greece, where philosophers like Anaxagoras and Aristotle incorporated it into their studies, and China, where it merged with traditional Chinese medicine. Indian palmistry evolved further during the medieval period, gaining prominence in royal courts and among mystics, where it was used to guide rulers and commoners alike.

Today, palmistry remains deeply embedded in Indian traditions, often practiced alongside astrology during auspicious events such as marriages, housewarmings, or naming ceremonies. It has also gained global recognition, with modern practitioners integrating ancient wisdom with contemporary methods, making it a vital part of metaphysical and spiritual studies worldwide.