More Than Just Animals: The History of Serpent Worship in India
-Bhoomee Vats
The practice of serpent worship in India has been deeply rooted in the culture and beliefs of our country. This tradition not only influenced our thoughts about reptiles but also influenced our religious festivals, religious practices, and our regional folklore as well. The serpents or Nagas, as we call them, are not just animals, but they symbolize fertility, death, life, and even immortality. These practices heavily impact our cultures, beliefs, traditions, and, to some extent, even our everyday lives, highlighting their significance in shaping our religious practices and beliefs even in a modern and rapidly changing world.
This tradition possibly emerged in India from the early human interaction with snakes, particularly in regions where these creatures were common. The people were not just afraid of the venom but were also fascinated by the abilities, such a shedding skin, which seemed like a renewing process altogether. This act of renewal or regeneration eventually made snakes a symbol of life and death. The practice of serpent worship can be traced back to 2500 BCE in the Indus Valley Civilization, where archaeological evidence showed snake-shaped artifacts, which connect snakes as deities to the people of the country from a very early age. In some communities, snakes are even seen as ancestors or protectors, hence becoming a central figure in the religious and spiritual practices of ancient India.
How Hinduism Sees Nagas
In Hindu culture, Nagas are considered to have the ability to take both human and serpent forms, an ability which makes them semi-divine in their culture and tradition. The serpents can be seen in many of the ancient Hindu texts as protectors of water bodies such as rivers, lakes, and the ocean, and are believed to have control over natural forces concerning water. They are mentioned in several major epics and texts such as the Mahabharata, the Ramayana, and other Puranas. Some of the major mentions in the Puranas include the mention of Shesha Naga, who is also known as Ananta. Shesha Naga serves as the cosmic and eternal bed of Lord Vishnu, who is known as the preserver of the world. Shesha Naga is not just any other serpent; he represents and symbolizes balance and control of the universe by holding in his embrace the Lord and Preserver of the world.
Another such mention of divine serpents includes Vasuki, who played a crucial part in the Samudra Manthan, also known as the churning of the ocean in the Hindu culture. Vasuki played the role of the rope and coiled around Mount Mandara with the Gods and demons using him to churn the ocean in desire of the nectar of immortality or amrita. Vasuki is a symbol of loyalty and strength, as he helped both the Gods and demons in different contexts. This engagement of his with the Gods and demons and the amrita highlights the Nagas’ connection to eternal life. The relevance of Nagas is not limited just to Hinduism, but it also extends into Buddhism and Jainism, where they are also seen as protectors and powerful spiritual beings.
The Practice of Naga Worship Around India
Naga worship developed is not just a passing mention in the cultures and states of India; it influences the tradition of India largely and affects the religious practices in many ways, essentially forming a huge part of the cultural life from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. While the practice took on various regional forms, Nagas were universally regarded as powerful beings capable of both protection and destruction in many of the folklores and even traditions throughout the country. Nagas are seen as guardians of Kashmir, as, according to the Kashmiri legends, they were the original inhabitants of Kashmir and lived in the lakes and rivers which filled that region. It is believed that before the sage Kashyapa drained the famous lake of Satisar, to make it more habitable for humans, many Naga resided there and made the lake their home. Presently, some places are even named after Nagas, and one such example of that is Anantnag, which means “the abode of the infinite Nagas.”
In some states like Kerala, West Bengal, and Odisha, the tradition of serpent worship still continues. Kerala maintains sacred groves known as Sarpa Kavu, which are protected natural areas especially for Nagas. Prayers and rituals are performed there to ensure fertility, health, and land protection. Similarly, in West Bengal and Odisha, the worship of Manasa Devi, the serpent goddess, continues still. The puja, called Manasa Puja, is held during the rainy season, which is the prime time to worship serpents, as devotees offer prayers for their well-being and prosperity.
Conclusion
One of the most important festivals dedicated to serpent worship in India is Naga Panchami, celebrated across different states. It is celebrated during the month of Shravan, which lasts from July to August, and this festival honors the Nagas and seeks their protection from danger, especially snake bites. On Naga Panchami, several images and statues of serpents are worshipped with offerings of milk, flowers, and sweets. In some regions, live snakes are also revered during the festival, and people perform special rituals to appease them and gain their blessings. The festival also symbolizes the gratitude of agricultural communities towards the Nagas, who are believed to control rainfall and soil fertility. It is a time to seek their blessings for a prosperous harvest and protection from natural calamities.
The worship of Nagas in India has a deep and enduring legacy, reflecting the rich cultural and religious traditions of the region. From their origins in the Indus Valley Civilization to their continued veneration in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain practices, Nagas are often associated with water bodies in Hindu belief, representing life-giving forces essential for agricultural fertility. Nagas have remained central figures representing fertility, life, death, and renewal. Their symbolic power is still evident today in festivals like Naga Panchami and the worship of deities like Manasa Devi, demonstrating how ancient traditions continue to shape modern religious life in India.
