Indians and their fascination with Snakes
Snakes have long been a part of Indian culture and mythology. They are often seen as symbols of fertility, wisdom, and protection. In some cultures, snakes are even worshipped as gods.
There are many reasons why Indians have such a fascination with snakes. One reason is that snakes are a common sight in India. The country is home to a wide variety of snake species, including some of the most venomous snakes in the world. As a result, Indians have learned to live alongside snakes and to respect their power.
Another reason for Indians' fascination with snakes is their religious symbolism. In Hindu mythology, snakes are often associated with the god Vishnu. Vishnu is the preserver of the universe, and he is often depicted as sleeping on a bed of snakes. Snakes are also seen as symbols of fertility and wisdom in Hindu mythology.
In Jainism, snakes are also seen as symbols of wisdom and compassion. The Jain saint Mahavira is often depicted with a snake wrapped around his body. This symbolizes the saint's ability to overcome fear and to see the good in all living beings.
The fascination with snakes is not limited to Hinduism and Jainism. In some tribal cultures in India, snakes are still worshipped as gods. These cultures believe that snakes have the power to protect their people from harm.
Today, the fascination with snakes is still evident in many aspects of Indian culture. Snakes are often used in traditional medicine, and they are also featured in popular culture, such as in Bollywood movies.
While some people may find snakes to be frightening, Indians have a long and complex relationship with these creatures. Snakes are seen as both feared and revered, and they continue to play an important role in Indian culture.
Here are some of the most common snake-related traditions in India:
- Naga Panchami: This is a Hindu festival that is celebrated every year in the month of August. The festival is dedicated to the snake god, Naga. On this day, people worship snakes and offer them milk, sweets, and flowers.
- Snake charming: This is a traditional Indian performance art in which a snake charmer uses a flute to hypnotize a snake. Snake charming is a controversial tradition, as some people believe that it is cruel to the snakes.
- Snakebite treatment: In India, there are many traditional snakebite treatments. Some of these treatments involve using herbs, while others involve using mantras or prayers.
- Snake motifs in art and architecture: Snakes are often used as motifs in Indian art and architecture. They can be found on temples, palaces, and even on everyday objects.
The fascination with snakes is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. It is rooted in both religious beliefs and cultural traditions. Snakes continue to play an important role in Indian culture, and they are likely to continue to do so for many years to come.
Snakes have been a popular subject in Indian movies for many years. They are often portrayed as creatures of both beauty and danger, and they can be used to symbolize a variety of themes, such as revenge, love, and power.
One of the most famous snake movies in India is Nagin (1954). This movie tells the story of a beautiful woman who is cursed to turn into a snake at night. The movie was a huge success, and it spawned a number of sequels and spin-offs.
Another popular snake movie is Nagina (1986). This movie stars Sridevi as a snake woman who seeks revenge on the men who killed her husband. The movie was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to solidify Sridevi's status as a superstar.
In recent years, there have been a number of new snake movies released in India. These movies have taken a more modern approach to the subject, and they often feature snakes as creatures of science fiction or fantasy.
One of the most popular recent snake movies is Hisss (2010). This movie stars Mallika Sherawat as a snake woman who is captured by a scientist and used in his experiments. The movie was a critical and commercial failure, but it helped to raise awareness of the plight of snakes in India.
Snakes continue to be a popular subject in Indian movies. They are often used to explore themes of love, revenge, and power, and they can be a source of both beauty and danger. Snakes are likely to continue to be a popular subject in Indian movies for many years to come.
Here are some other notable snake movies from India:
- Naag (1976)
- Nagin Aur Suhagan (1976)
- Sheshnaag (1990)
- Jaani Dushman (1979)
- Nache Nagin Gali Gali (1989)
- Tumm Mere Ho (1990)
- Doodh Ka Karz (1990)
- Vish kanya (1991)
- Naagin 2 (2017)
These movies all feature snakes in a variety of roles, from creatures of beauty and mystery to symbols of revenge and power. They offer a glimpse into the complex and fascinating relationship that Indians have with these creatures.
