Continents like Asia and Europe, as well as the rest of the world, offer various opportunities for holistic living. For instance, Swaswara on Om Beach in Gokarna provides a serene environment focused on holistic well-being. If you're looking for accommodation in Shekhawati, Piramal Haveli is worth considering. For a luxurious travel experience in the holy city of Pushkar, Westin Pushkar Resort & Spa is a great option. Clarks Awadh offers a chance to experience the vibrant lifestyle of Lucknow. Serolsar Lake holds the legend of Budhi Nagin and is a fascinating destination. In Indian families, the first ghee made from a cow's milk after it gives birth to a calf is considered sacred and saved for worship. Fortunately, I come from a family where cows are still highly valued and a part of our cultural heritage.
I have observed my mother and grandmother perform a specific tradition whenever a new calf is born. Intrigued, I decided to inquire about the reason behind collecting ghee in a jar and prohibiting anyone from consuming it. Seeking answers, I approached my grandmother who informed me that the initial milk ghee is collected for Budhi Nagin at Serolsar Lake.
The story of Budhi Nagin, also known as Buddi Nagin, begins in the Seraj region of Mandi district in Himachal Pradesh. She possessed certain powers bestowed upon her by Durga Maa, who is a form of Nava Durga. Eventually, Budhi Nagin got married in the Suket area, which is now called Karsog district and is well-known in Himachal Pradesh.
Buddhi Nagin ventured close to the local water area of the Satluj River. Prior to her departure, she explicitly told her mother not to disturb her sleeping children who were resting in a basket made of husks in the kitchen. It was common for people to use husk baskets to keep their children secure before the prevalence of baby prams.
After some time, the mother became concerned because the children were sleeping for an extended period without waking up. Ignoring the warnings of Budhi Nagin, the mother decided to remove the blanket. To her surprise, she discovered 5-6 snakes inside it. Feeling frightened, she quickly grabbed some ash from the kitchen and threw it on the snakes. The snakes scattered in various directions. It is believed that they were not given much thought after this incident.
Upon Buddha Nagin's return, she was filled with sadness upon discovering that her children were no longer there. Overwhelmed by her emotions, she made the decision to leave the village. In the Bhiuri village of Karsog, a small stone idol is still revered in the very house where Buddha Nagin once resided.
The house is too damaged to be repaired or updated. Budhi Nagin vacated the property and made their way to Serolsar Lake, located near Jalori Pass in Banjar Valley of Kullu District in Himachal Pradesh.
Naga Worship is a religious practice where people believe in the connection between Buddhi Nagin and Nagdev, the deity of snakes. The community in this area strongly associates Nagas with Shiva. Each Naga is believed to have its own designated area and village, which are named after them, such as Chowasi Nag, Hungru Nag, and Jhakad Nag.
Within these rural communities, numerous exquisite temples are built using traditional Himachali architectural styles. These temples are adorned with intricate wooden carvings that enhance their beauty. Annually, Nag Devtas (snake deities), priests, and villagers venture throughout their region. The villagers generously make donations of various kinds to the Nagas as a form of tribute. Additionally, they partake in local Himachali dances known as Nati, adding to the vibrant cultural traditions of the area
The mesmerizing meadows surround the lake, creating a picturesque setting. Visitors can witness breathtaking sunsets and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains from every angle.
According to the tale, a serpent named Buddhi Nagin arrived at Serolsar Lake and settled on a large stone. In the vicinity, there were 60 young girls known as Joginis or Yoginis. Some of them were headed to Shikari Devi in Mandi, while others were going to Jalori Jot. When these Joginis spotted Buddhi Nagin sitting in Serolsar Lake, they approached her and suggested playing a game together.
They believed that they could easily conquer her due to her old age. It was agreed that if Budhi Nagin emerged victorious in the game, she would consider this location sacred, but if the Joginis triumphed, she would depart from this place.
During a game, a girl cheated, which greatly angered Buddi Nagin. In response, she placed a curse on the girl, transforming her into a permanent small bird. Additionally, Buddi Nagin assigned the bird the duty of cleaning a small body of water. This bird is now referred to as Abhi Chidiya.
After emerging as the winner of the game, Buddi Nagin made the decision to permanently reside in this location. During her journey, she carried a small pot with her. While exploring Serolsar, the pot accidentally slipped from her grasp, resulting in the creation of a lake at that precise location. Therefore, the lake came into existence due to this incident.
The rock where Buddi Nagin was seated is currently referred to as Kala Pathar.
The Pandavas, who were banished, arrived at Jalori Pass and eventually came across Serolsar Lake. They decided to cultivate rice in the vicinity of the lake. According to the legend, while they were doing so, they witnessed the appearance of Buddi Nagin, a mythical serpent, who then returned to the lake.
The Pandavas retrieved the statue of her from the lake and placed it on the shores. They constructed a small shrine for her near the lake. Over the years, the temple has undergone several renovations. The present temple is the fourth one after it was renovated.
At the Budhi Nagin Temple, people have a tradition of offering ghee to Budhi Nagin, the revered deity who is considered the mother of all Nag Devtas in the Mandi and Kullu region. Budhi Nagin had a deep affection for cows, hence devotees bring ghee as an offering when they visit her temple. According to belief, when ghee is poured inside the temple, it is believed to reach the center of the lake where Budhi Nagin is believed to reside.
Individuals carry large quantities of ghee to the temple and lake. Each year, the Nagdevas from the surrounding area come to visit Budhi Nagin during specific events. These events are anticipated by the local priests.
The temple cannot be accessed during the winter because it is closed as a result of the significant amount
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There is a lack of knowledge regarding the exact depth of Serolsar Lake.
Here's a rewritten version of the text:
Here's a captivating tale filled with mystery. One day, a Brahmin and his family were enjoying a leisurely walk near the lake when the Brahmin accidentally fell into the water. Despite their efforts, his family was unable to rescue him. Surprisingly, after a span of three years, the Brahmin reappeared, having emerged from the depths of the lake. It turned out that he had made a promise to Budhi Nagin, a mystical serpent, to keep her
His family persistently inquired about his whereabouts and how he managed to survive. Eventually, Brahmin confessed the truth. He explained that after falling into the lake, he descended to its depths where he was rescued by a creature named Buddi Nagin. According to him, Buddi Nagin dwells in a magnificent golden palace beneath the lake. He also mentioned witnessing numerous containers of milk while in her presence, as she engaged in the act of churning curd.
Once he revealed the truth, he met his demise. The residents of the village gathered near the lake and witnessed strange occurrences. It was understood that Buddi Nagin desired for the lake to remain undisturbed and maintained in a pristine condition. The lake, in fact, always appears spotless, with not a single leaf present within its waters.
Discover the captivating beauty of India's most stunning lakes.
Jalori Pass is a significant pass located in the Banjar Valley of the Kullu district, adjacent to the Suket area of Karsog. This pass serves as a connection between the Kullu and Shimla districts and was constructed by the British with the purpose of accessing Kullu.
Jalori Pass is situated at an elevation of 2000 meters. During the winter season, the pass is inaccessible as it gets blocked by excessive snowfall. The Banjar Valley, located in the Kullu district, is a unique and less-explored tourist spot.
The Kullu district is split into three primary valleys: Tirthan, Banjar, and Sainj Valley. The Jalori Pass offers a picturesque route to Jibhi, surrounded by thick deodar trees.
The Anni district of Kullu is located between Jalori's pass and Shimla. It is famous for its apple orchards, and visitors can appreciate the picturesque sight of these orchards during the appropriate season.
Are you feeling tired of living in the city? Take a break from the urban life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature by going on a hike in the Himalayas. A stunning trek of 5 kilometers will lead you to the serene Serolsar Lake, located in Jalori Pass. This hike is an ideal choice for those seeking
Hiking in this area is a straightforward and enjoyable experience, as you simply walk in a straight line through a thick forest filled with deodar and banyan trees. The hike offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding mountains, as well as the opportunity to witness a truly remarkable sunset over the mountains.
The path of each season varies, and during the summer, the path is filled with vivid colors as Moses plants stand out on the tree trunks. Additionally, you can observe some of the most uncommon types of plants and animals, such as rare herbs, medicinal plants, and untouched wilderness.
For those looking to travel, there are numerous affordable homestays available near Jalori Pass. Additionally, if you prefer camping, there are facilities provided in the meadows of Jalori Pass. It is also worth noting that Jalori Pass is easily reachable.
Pallavi Thakur authored this post as a component of the IndiTales Internship Program.
Other articles by the same author include Bhuira Jams, an enterprise run by women from the mountains, and Pandava Era Temples in the Karsog Valley of Himachal. They also write about places to visit in Tirthan Valley, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh. The article has received three comments. The writer highly recommends visiting this place to experience the beauty of Indian culture and tradition. After reading the blog, the reader feels motivated to go and witness the amazing beauty themselves. The reader thanks the author for publishing these kinds of articles.
It is fascinating to learn about the customs and heritage associated with ghee!
Corinne's signature.
I found this blog to be quite enjoyable, particularly the narrative about Budhi Nagin.
Please refrain from commenting if you do not wish to leave a reply. I will remember your name, email, and website for future comments.
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