Bhogavati

In Hindu mythology, Bhogavati (Hindi: भोगवती, literally "peopled by snakes" or "delightful") is the subterranean capital of the Nagas in the Nagaloka region of Patala. The place is also called Putkari. It is mentioned as Naga capital at (3-57). The foremost of cities which resembles the Amaravati of Deva king Indra, is known by the name of Bhogavati. It is ruled over by Vasuki, the king of the Nāgas. Shesha, the foremost of Nagas who is a great ascetic also dwells here (5,103). In the region south-west to Deva territories is the city called Bhogavati that is ruled by Vasuki, by the Naga Takshaka and also by Airavata (5,109).

The Ramayana, Kishkindha Kand Sarg 41, mentions about the directions given to southward search party for Sita, prepared by Sugriva under the leadership of Angad, in which several important Vanaras were included - Neel, Hanuman, Jamvanta, Suhotra, Shararita, Shargulma, Gaja, Gavaksha etc. Sugriva told them about the impassable countries and difficult path and said ....

"Next you will see Kunjar Parvat. Here Vishwakarmaa built a place for Agastya Muni. This place is one Yojan wide and 10 Yojan high. Here there is Bhogvati city where snakes live, that is why it is impossible for human beings to go there. Here lives the king of snakes - Vasuki Naga. Many terrific snakes guard him. This place is studded in numerous gem stones. Go in this place very carefully and search for Sita.

In popular culture

Bhogavati is featured as a level in the 2008 video game Tomb Raider: Underworld. The game places Bhogavati in Thailand, and depicts the nāga as giant, venom spitting lizards which inspired the later myths.

References

• A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology & Religion by John Dowson
• Indian Serpent Lore or The Nagas in Hindu Legend and Rt by J. Vogel.