Significance of Pannaga

Pannaga, according to Purana, are entities characterized by flaming jaws and a strong connection to the Ocean. They are often found in association with the Ocean itself. The Purana describes these beings as significant figures within its cosmological framework, emphasizing their fiery nature and aquatic ties.

Synonyms: Snake, Serpent, Cobra, Viper, Reptile

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Pannaga'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Pannaga likely refers to serpentine beings with flaming jaws, connected to the ocean. They seem to be powerful, potentially dangerous entities linked to the depths.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)

(1) These have flaming jaws and are associated with the Ocean, which appears with them.[1]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Ayurveda (science of life):
Ayurveda Books

From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga

(1) This word means a snake or snake shaped demon; the formulation is able to pacify or kill the Vatarupi demon or the Vatarupi snake.[2]

Ayurveda is a branch of Indian science dealing with medicine, herbalism, taxology, anatomy, surgery, alchemy and related topics. Traditional practice of Ayurveda in ancient India dates back to at least the first millenium BC. Literature is commonly written in Sanskrit using various poetic metres.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu

(1) Pannagas, alongside devas, Gandharvas, Rakshasas, asuras and Yakshas, are noted in Hari-vamsha as entities that try to make the divine figure break a promise, yet they are unable to succeed.[3]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

Significance in Natyashastra (theatrics and dramaturgy):
Natyashastra Books

From: Natyashastra (English)

(1) Pannagas, along with Yakshas and Guhyakas, are employed to protect the bottom of the stage, contributing to the overall safety and integrity of the performance space.[4]

Natyashastra refers to both the ancient Indian tradition (shastra) of performing arts, (natya—theatrics, drama, dance, music), as well as the name of a Sanskrit work dealing with these subjects. It also teaches the rules for composing Dramatic plays (nataka), construction and performance of Theater, and Poetic works (kavya).