Snake Court of Madhya Pradesh: Tradition a century old unlearns why snakes bite after Diwali!
In Madhya Pradesh, an unusual and captivating tradition unfolds every year right after Diwali. Known as the "Court of Snakes," this ritual has been held for over 100 years in Lasudia Parihar village in Sehore district, 30 kilometers from Bhopal. Here, villagers gather to "hear" explanations on why certain snakes bit humans, with these serpents said to "give evidence" of their intentions in a ceremonial trial before the village priest.
The Ancient Tradition of the Snake Court
In this unique ritual, villagers who have survived snakebites participate in the ceremony as part of their spiritual healing. Traditionally, people bitten by snakes seek not hospital treatment, but solace and guidance from the village temple, believing this sacred court grants them both remedy and closure. Each year, approximately 15,000 visitors—many traveling from distant towns—gather to witness this mystical ritual, which has grown into a cultural phenomenon recognized beyond Madhya Pradesh’s borders.
How the Snake Court is Conducted
The ceremony involves a large, ornamented plate crafted to resemble a snake. As drumbeats resonate through the village, it is believed that the "snake spirits" enter the bodies of those who were previously bitten. This trance-like state induces dancing, and each "possessed" participant approaches the village priest—who presides as the judge in this peculiar courtroom.
In this symbolic trial, the possessed attendees are thought to channel the spirits of snakes and reveal the reasons behind each bite. The explanations vary: some bites are claimed as acts of defense due to accidental provocation, such as being stepped on, while others are attributed to disturbances by humans. Each snake "testifies" about the circumstances that led to the bite, and the priest, representing the villagers, asks the spirit to promise to avoid future incidents. This ritual serves as a symbolic gesture of harmony between people and snakes, calling for mutual respect and coexistence.
Preserving a Century-Old Cultural Heritage
Through the annual ritual of the snake court, Madhya Pradesh showcases a cultural congregation that not only honors traditional beliefs but also encourages respect for nature. This ceremony is deeply rooted in spirituality, folklore, and environmental reverence, emphasizing peaceful coexistence with nature. As this tradition persists, the people of Madhya Pradesh remain committed to the notion that humans and nature can, and should, live side by side in harmony.
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