Guardians of the Underworld: The Mystical Nagas of Indian Mythology

India’s rich tapestry of mythology is woven with fascinating creatures none more mysterious and multi-dimensional than the Nagas. These serpent-like beings, revered and feared in equal measure, are a significant presence in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions. Half-human and half-cobra, the Nagas symbolize power, protection, wisdom, and the duality of nature.

Who Are the Nagas?

In Hindu mythology, Nagas are a class of semi-divine beings often depicted as beings with human faces and serpent bodies, or as large serpents with magical abilities. They are considered the sons of Kashyapa and Kadru, making them siblings of Garuda, the eagle mount of Lord Vishnu and their sworn enemy.

The Nagas reside in Patal Lok, the underworld realm filled with treasures, guarded jealously by these mystical beings. However, they frequently traverse the boundaries of realms appearing on Earth and in the celestial worlds during crucial mythological episodes.

Nagas carry deeply symbolic meanings:

• Protection and Guardianship: In temples across India, Nagas are often seen carved into walls and doorways as protectors.
  
  

• Wisdom and Rebirth: Their ability to shed their skin symbolizes renewal, making them figures of knowledge and transformation.
  
  

• Fertility and Rain: In agrarian societies, they were worshipped for rain and crop fertility. Festivals like Naga Panchami still honor them to this day.
  
  

Notable Nagas in Mythology

1. Shesha (Ananta) – The king of all Nagas, Shesha is a cosmic serpent upon whom Lord Vishnu reclines. He represents eternity and stability, holding the universe on his hoods.
   
   

2. Vasuki – Known for assisting in the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), Vasuki served as the churning rope wrapped around Mount Mandara. Though it caused him great distress, his sacrifice led to the emergence of divine nectar.
   
   

3. Takshaka – A powerful Naga king in the Mahabharata, Takshaka is infamous for killing King Parikshit and becoming an adversary of humanity in certain narratives.
   
   

4. Kaliya – A venomous Naga who poisoned the Yamuna river until Lord Krishna subdued him by dancing on his many hoods a tale that symbolizes the triumph of divinity over destructive power.
   
   

Nagas in Buddhism and Jainism

In Buddhism, Nagas are considered protectors of the Dharma. A famous story recounts how a Naga king named Mucalinda shielded the meditating Buddha from rain and storm by coiling around him and spreading his hoods.

In Jain traditions, Nagas also appear as beings of significance, often associated with powerful energies and cosmic balance.

Even today, the reverence for Nagas continues. Naga Panchami, observed in the month of Shravan (July–August), involves worshipping live snakes or their idols with milk, turmeric, and flowers. It is believed to ward off snakebites and bring good fortune.

Their legacy also lives on in architecture, literature, and folklore throughout South and Southeast Asia.

The Nagas represent more than mythical serpents they are ancient symbols of power, duality, and mysticism. Whether guarding sacred treasures or aiding gods in celestial deeds, they remain integral to India’s mythological and spiritual landscape.