Serpent sculpture in Sankhu, Nepal
Snake is an object of worship in different forms among the Hindus. It ranks sacred, second only to the cow. Snakes called Nagas are usually represented as gigantic cobras with several hoods, or with a human head and serpent body. In almost all of southern India the serpent is worshiped in its original form either through images representing serpents or actually as live serpents residing in holes within the shrines or outdoor anthills where they are supposed to live.
Snake worship, India. Photo courtesy Shri Krishnan
It is believed that down in the Netherworld the Nagas have their own kingdom where they live with their families in homes or palaces, displaying both human and superhuman qualities. Their king is called Nagaraja. This title actually is applied to three main serpent deities: Anantha, Takshak, and Vasuki. The three are brothers. Anantha, the eldest one, represents the friendly aspect of snakes, as they save food from rodents. Lord Vishnu is always on continuous meditation with Anantha forming a bed for him. Vasuki, the younger brother, was a devotee of Lord Shiva who always wears Vasuki around his neck. Takshak represents the dangerous aspect of snakes, as they are feared by all due to their venom.
Snake image decorating a temple in Bhaktapur, Nepal
The Nagas, like all the gods, require respect and devotion. Then they bring the rains, grant increased wealth and give protection for jewels and treasures. But an angered, unappeased serpent deity can cause drought and famine, death from snake bite and disease, loss of possessions and collapse of homes and buildings.
Worshiping snakes, Karnataka, India. Photo courtesy Parshotam Lal Tandon
Many Hindus perform small pujas throughout the year in places where Snake Gods are believed to live, in the corners of gardens and courtyards, in drains and near water spouts, pools, springs and streams. Snake festivals are also held at various times of the year and most festivals involve bathing of snake idols, offering milk to the idols and pouring milk into snake holes. Of these festivals, Naga Panchami is the most important. On this day, snakes are worshiped to gain knowledge, wealth and fame.
Naga Panchami, India. Photo courtesy Sunjay Gupta
In Punjab a huge dough-snake kneaded from the contribution of flour and butter from every household is placed on a basket and taken around the village in a colourful procession. When the procession reaches the main square of the village all the religious rites are performed and then the dough-snake is ceremoniously buried.
In Maharashtra thousands of snaked are caught for worship and placed into pots. During Naga Panchami the pots are taken out on a bullock cart and village youths dance along wearing snakes around their necks like garlands. The snake pots are taken to a temple for worship. After that the snakes are taken out of the pots for display and in the evening they are released.
Pouring milk over the Naga image during Naga Panchami, Nepal. Photo courtesy Om Yadav
In South India Naga Panchami is also celebrated as Brother-Sister's day. On tis occasion brothers visit the houses of their married sisters. Sisters apply milk and ghee (butter), followed by turmeric powder and kumkum, on the back of their brothers by using a flower. Food is offered and gifts are given with prayers to serpent Lord to bless their brothers.
Related posts