Image used for representation
| Photo Credit: The Hindu
Members of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly on Wednesday (July 2, 2025) urged the State government to explore ways to revive the traditional practice of worshipping live snakes during the Nag Panchami festival in Battis Shirala, Sangli district — a ritual halted following a court directive in 2002.
Raising the issue through a Calling Attention Motion, BJP MLA Satyajit Deshmukh said that the religious and cultural tradition of serpent worship in Battis Shirala held deep significance for the local community and had even found mention in school textbooks. He drew parallels with the Supreme Court’s decision to allow the resumption of Jallikattu — the traditional bull-taming sport in Tamil Nadu — and the continued ceremonial use of elephants in religious rituals.
“Just like those practices were allowed while ensuring the welfare of animals, this tradition too can be revived by adopting safeguards,” Mr. Deshmukh said, rejecting claims that snakes were harmed during the festival.
Battis Shirala, located in western Maharashtra, was once renowned for its vibrant Nag Panchami celebrations, where local residents would capture live cobras, worship them, and then release them into their natural habitat. However, the Bombay High Court banned the parading of live snakes in 2002 following concerns raised by wildlife conservation groups.
Responding to the motion, Forest Minister Ganesh Naik acknowledged the religious importance of the tradition for the people of Battis Shirala and said the matter would be discussed with Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav during meetings scheduled on July 7 and 8.
“We are committed to ensuring that such cultural traditions are preserved without compromising wildlife protection norms. The government will explore options for reviving the practice in a manner that safeguards both heritage and animal welfare,” Mr. Naik said.
Supporting the demand, NCP (SP) leader Jayant Patil said that no injuries or fatalities had ever been reported from the handling of snakes during the festival. BJP MLA Gopichand Padalkar also endorsed the appeal, pointing out that the unique ritual attracted foreign tourists and contributed to cultural tourism in the region.
Mr. Deshmukh reiterated that the locals have long treated the snakes with reverence, and the ritual involves returning the reptiles unharmed to the wild after worship. “This is not about spectacle — it is about faith and continuity of tradition,” he said.
Published – July 03, 2025 12:00 am IST
