Continents like Asia and Europe, as well as the rest of the world, are known for their diverse cultures. One place that offers a holistic living experience is Swaswara, located on Om Beach in Gokarna. For a unique stay, consider Piramal Haveli in Shekhawati. If you're looking for luxury travel in a spiritual city, Westin Pushkar Resort & Spa is a great choice. Experience the vibrant Lucknow life by staying at Clarks Awadh. Serolsar Lake is a popular attraction with a legendary story about Budhi Nagin. In Indian traditions, the first ghee made from a cow's milk after giving birth to a calf is considered sacred and is saved for worship. I am fortunate to come from a family that still values cows as an important part of our culture.
I have observed my mother and grandmother performing a ritual every time a new calf is born. I became interested in understanding the reason behind collecting ghee in a jar and prohibiting anyone from consuming it. To seek an explanation, I approached my grandmother. It was then that I discovered that the ghee from the first milk is gathered for Budhi Nagin, who resides in Serolsar Lake.
The story of Budhi Nagin begins in the Seraj region of Mandi district in Himachal Pradesh. She was widely known as Buddi Nagin and was believed to possess certain powers bestowed upon her by Durga Maa, a form of the goddess Nava Durga. Buddi Nagin later got married in the Suket area, which is now recognized as Karsog district in Himachal Pradesh.
Buddhi Nagin decided to approach the nearby water territory of the Satluj River. She specifically told her mother not to disturb or wake her children while she was gone. Her children were peacefully sleeping in a basket made of husks, which was a common practice before baby prams became widely used.
Eventually, the mother became concerned when the children continued to sleep for an extended period of time without waking up. Despite Budhi Nagin's warnings, the mother decided to move the blanket. To her surprise, she discovered 5-6 snakes hidden within it. Terrified, she quickly grabbed some ash from the kitchen and tossed it onto the snakes. The snakes scattered in various directions. It is believed that they were forgotten about after this incident.
Upon Buddha Nagin's return, she was filled with sadness upon discovering that her children had departed. Overwhelmed by her emotions, she decided to leave the village. In the Bhiuri village of Karsog, there remains a revered small stone statue in the house where Buddha Nagin once resided.
The house is in such a poor condition that it cannot be repaired or updated. Budhi Nagin decided to leave the house and make his way to Serolsar Lake, located near Jalori Pass in the Banjar Valley of Kullu District in Himachal Pradesh.
Naga Worship
According to local beliefs, Buddhi Nagin is considered the mother of Nagdev, who is worshipped as the snake god. The community in this region associates Nagas with Shiva. Each Naga is believed to have their own designated area and village named after them, such as Chowasi Nag, Hungru Nag, and Jhakad Nag.
Within these villages, there are numerous exquisite temples built in the traditional Himachali style. These temples feature intricate wooden carvings that add to their beauty. Annually, Nag Devtas (snake deities), priests, and villagers gather to make a procession throughout the region. During this event, people generously offer donations of any kind to the Nagas as a form of reverence. Additionally, the locals partake in traditional Himachali dances known as Nati, adding a
The lake can be found in the heart of captivating grasslands. Visitors can delight in the breathtaking sunset and appreciate the panoramic sight of the surrounding mountains from every direction.
According to the tale, Buddhi Nagin arrived at Serolsar Lake and settled on a large rock. In the vicinity, there were 60 young girls known as Joginis or Yoginis, who were divided into two groups. One group was heading towards Shikari Devi in Mandi, while the other was on their way to Jalori Jot. As they noticed Buddhi Nagin sitting by the lake, the Joginis approached her and suggested playing a game together.
The assumption was made that the elderly woman would be easy to conquer. A decision was reached that if Budhi Nagin emerged victorious in the game, she would claim this location as her sacred place. However, if the Joginis were triumphant, she would have to vacate the area.
During a game, one of the girls engaged in dishonest behavior, causing Buddi Nagin to become extremely furious. As a consequence, she placed a curse upon the girl, transforming her into a permanent small bird and assigning her the responsibility of cleansing a small body of water. Henceforth, this bird came to be known as Abhi Chidiya.
After emerging victorious in the game, Buddi Nagin made the decision to make this place her permanent residence. When she left her home, she brought along a small pot with her. While wandering around in Serolsar, the pot accidentally slipped from her grasp, resulting in the sudden creation of a lake at that very spot. And thus, the lake came into existence.
The rock where Buddi Nagin was seated is currently referred to as Kala Pathar.
The Pandavas, who were in exile, reached Jalori Pass and eventually arrived at Serolsar Lake. While they were there, they decided to cultivate rice around the lake. According to the story, a mythical creature called Buddi Nagin appeared before them and then returned to the lake.
The Pandavas retrieved the Murti of the goddess from the lake and placed it on the land nearby. They constructed a modest temple for her on the shores of the lake. Over the years, the temple has undergone several renovations. The present temple is the fourth version of the temple after being renovated.
At the Budhi Nagin Temple, people have a tradition of offering ghee. Budhi Nagin, who is considered the mother of all the Nag Devta in the Mandi and Kullu region, had a great love for cows. Therefore, visitors to her temple bring ghee as an offering. According to the belief, when ghee is poured inside the temple, it is believed to directly reach the center of the lake where Budhi Nagin is believed to reside.
Individuals transport large quantities of ghee to the temple and lake. Each year, the Nagdevas from the surrounding area make a pilgrimage to Budhi Nagin during specific events. These events are determined in advance by priests from the local community.
During the winter season, the temple is not open to visitors because of the significant amount of snow
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There is a mysterious aspect to Serolsar Lake as its depth remains unknown to everyone.
Here is a tale filled with mystery. A Brahmin and his family were out for a leisurely walk near a lake when he accidentally fell into the water. Despite their efforts, his family was unable to save him. Surprisingly, after a span of three years, the Brahmin returned from the depths of the lake. It turned out that he had made a promise to Budhi Nagin, a mystical serpent-like creature, not to reveal her existence to anyone.
His family persistently inquired about his whereabouts and how he managed to survive. Eventually, the Brahmin revealed the truth. He explained that when he fell into the lake, he descended to its depths where he was rescued by Buddi Nagin. Buddi Nagin resides in a magnificent palace made of gold within the lake. He witnessed her engaged in the process of churning curd and noticed numerous containers filled with milk in her abode.
After revealing the truth, he met his demise. The residents of the village gathered near the lake, witnessing strange occurrences. It was deduced that Buddi Nagin desired for the lake to remain undisturbed and in a pristine state. In reality, the lake is consistently immaculate, devoid of any leaves or debris.
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Jalori Pass is located in the Banjar Valley of the Kullu district, close to the Suket area of Karsog. This pass serves as a connection between the Kullu and Shimla districts and was constructed by the British as a means to access Kullu.
Jalori Pass is situated at an elevation of 2000 meters. During winter, the pass is inaccessible as it gets blocked by a significant amount of snowfall. Banjar Valley, located in the Kullu district, is a less-explored tourist spot.
The Kullu district is separated into three primary valleys: Tirthan, Banjar, and Sainj Valley. The drive to Jibhi through Jalori Pass offers a scenic route surrounded by thick deodar trees.
The Anni district of Kullu is located between Jalori's pass and Shimla. Anni is famous for its apple orchards, and visitors can admire the stunning sight of these orchards during the appropriate season.
Are you feeling tired of living in the city? Take a break and immerse yourself in nature by going on a hike in the Himalayas. The hike to Serolsar Lake, which covers a distance of 5 km and is located in Jalori Pass, is an ideal choice for you.
Hiking through a dense forest filled with deodar and banyan trees is a straightforward and enjoyable experience. Along the way, you will be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and witness the most magnificent sunset in that mountainous region.
Each season follows a unique course; during the summer, the path is filled with lively and vivid hues, resembling the artwork of Moses on the tree trunks. Additionally, one can witness a variety of uncommon plant and animal species, including rare herbs, medicinal plants, and untamed wilderness.
Tips for Traveling
If you're planning a trip to Jalori Pass, there are plenty of affordable homestays available in the surrounding area. Additionally, you have the option to camp in the beautiful meadows of Jalori Pass. The pass itself is easily reachable, making it a convenient destination for travelers.
Pallavi Thakur authored this post as a component of the IndiTales Internship Program.
Other articles you may be interested in:
– Bhuira Jams, a business started by women from the mountains
– Ancient temples from the Pandava Era in the Karsog Valley of Himachal
– Recommended places to visit in Tirthan Valley, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh
Comment: This destination is a must-visit for those who want to experience the captivating beauty of Indian culture and traditions. After reading your blog, I feel inspired to go there myself and witness this incredible beauty. Thank you for consistently publishing articles like this.
It's fascinating to learn about the customs and heritage associated with ghee!
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I found this blog to be very enjoyable, particularly the story of Budhi Nagin.
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