Sarpabali

Collective Sarpabali Yajnam and Maha Payasa Homam

The cult of Naga worship has been prevalent in Kerala for centuries. Snakes have traditionally been worshipped both in sarpakavu (serpent groves) and Kavus (temples). According to the Nagapurana, Naga deities must be propitiated to attain wealth, prosperity, and virtuous progeny. Naga gods are believed to uplift lives by bestowing blessings—or conversely, to withhold fortune when displeased.

Nagas are revered not only by humans but also by Devas (gods), Asuras (demons), and beings across the cosmic realms, as they possess immense power and influence. Their significance is described in sacred texts like the Srimad Bhagavatam and the Mahabharata. Throughout India, serpents are regarded with awe, power, and respect.

According to Hindu mythology:

• Lord Vishnu rests under the hood of Adishesha.

• Lord Shiva adorns Vasuki around His neck and wears other serpents on His wrists and ankles.

• Aadi Parashakti, the Supreme Goddess, is often depicted with a hooded serpent in Her crown.

• Lord Ganesha has a serpent coiled around His belly, symbolizing the cosmic girdle of protection.

Given this profound spiritual symbolism, Naga worship should be conducted with reverence, splendor, and ritual purity.

In earlier times, many serpent groves were found across the land, serving as natural abodes for serpents. Unfortunately, many of these have been destroyed over time, and today Naga worship is primarily conducted in dedicated temples where the traditional poojas and rituals are preserved.

At Pampady Sree Nagaraja Temple, the Sarpabali yajnam (Sarpa – Serpent; Bali – Ritual Offering; Yajna – Sacred Worship) is conducted once every two months, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., on a large scale with enthusiastic participation from devotees.

This sacred event involves strict religious observances meant to appease the 64 crore Naga deities. It is widely believed that sincere participation in Sarpabali fulfills wishes, brings auspicious marriage prospects, and ensures the blessing of good offspring.

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Maha Payasa Homam

Another important ritual is the Payasa Homam, in which payasam  is offered into the sacred fire (homam). In Vedic belief, Agni, the fire god, serves as the divine messenger, carrying offerings to all deities. Performing homam is regarded as one of the highest forms of worship.

In Payasa Homam, the offering of payasam is made to Agni along with mantra chanting. Prior to the offering, the invocation of Naga deities is performed through the Nagasooktha Archana, at the divine Padmapeeda (sacred pedestal).

This ritual is also performed once every two months inside the temple premises with mass participation. According to the Nagapurana, all serpent-related curses (Sarpa Doshas) are believed to be resolved through the offering of pāyasam into the homa agni.

In addition to group participation, individual devotees may also opt to perform the Sarpabali Yajna and Payasa Homam. However, advance registration is required:

• For Sarpabali Yajna or Payasa Homam, register at least 4 days prior to the pooja date.

• For Special Ayillya Pooja, register at least 2 days in advance.

Participation Charges:

• Full Share: ₹2,001/-

• Half Share: ₹1,001/-

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Collective Sarpabali and Maha Pāyasa Homam – 2025