what is the dead habit according to the poet rabindranath tagore

In the poem "Where the mind is without fear" or "A Prayer," Rabindranath Tagore describes old customs and rituals as "dead habits". The poet compares these habits to dreary desert sand, which is dry and fruitless. It is important to note that Tagore is not criticizing all habits, but rather superstitious beliefs and actions that hinder progress and growth.