Festival of snakes.
India is home to an astonishing variety of snakes. Not surprisingly, Hindu tradition inculcates a deep reverence for the reptiles, their significance embedded in ancient texts, epics, lore, art, as well as in practice. The cobra is an especially salient presence in the Hindu imagination. Lord Shiva, for example, has one coiled around his neck. Snakes and Ladders originated in India.
The Naga Panchami festival in honour of the anguine will be celebrated today across India.
Figurines of cobras are brought into homes for offerings and worship. The other day I came across a street vendor in the village of Ribandar, Goa.
A quiver of Cobras
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Snakes are NOT favorite of creatures! I say that with no disrespect just fear. But their influence in the Hindu religion does not go on “lost ears”. While serving in SE Asia for 2 years I ran across a few of these and gave them “the right of way” and left them alone. One combat aircraft was named after the “Cobra” out of respect. Great photography!
Dan – even in the American Southwest the rattlesnake always has “the right of way.”
Dad joke alert! What is the opposite of Naga Panchami?…Naga did not Punch me. 😂😂
Happy Naga Panchami to all!
The vibrance and array of hues in the first photo is striking, effective, and very pleasing to the eye. I hope you’re enjoying your stay in Goa.
Thanks, Bob. Yes, Goa at this time of the year (the monsoon season) is especially lovely.