Excelsior Correspondent
BHADERWAH, Jan 15: Continuing with the age-old custom associated with ancient Nag culture prevalent in the Chenab region, idols of Lord Vasuki Nag were covered on the eve of Makar Sakranti last night for three months.
Covering of the idols is a specific ritual associated with a temple in Bhaderwah and this practice is part of the local Nag culture, for which the region is known as ‘Naagon Ki Bhoomi’ (Land of Snakes).
The main Vasuki Nag Temple, Gatha and Vaska Dera, Bhaderwah are believed to be the home and Darbar of Lord Vasuki Nag which contain a single black stone idol of Lord Vasuki Nag and Raja Jamute Vahan.
These twin temples are central to the annual Kailash Yatra.
Devotees converged in large numbers at 2074 year old Gatha temple and Vasak Dera temple to have a view of the idols before these were draped for three months only to be reopened at Baisakhi (April 13, 2026).
Nag Priest, Mohit Kotwal said: “During this period, Lord Vasuki Nag is believed to enter Patal Lok and devotees can only see the feet of the Deity in both the temples.”
Nag devotees chanting devotional songs with heavy heart and wet eyes came to have blessing of Lord Vasuki Nag before the idols were draped from head to ankles in traditional cloth known as ‘Bagga’.
“I come to seek blessings of Bhagwan Vasuki Nag twice a day and it’s difficult time for all of us not to see our God for 3 months,” said Pinky Sharma, a devotee.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
