Naga Mythology

In myths, legends, scripture and folklore, the category naga comprises all kinds of serpentine beings.

Under this rubric are snakes, usually of the python kind (despite the fact that naga is usually taken literally to refer to a cobra,) deities of the primal ocean, river and of mountain springs; also spirits of earth and the realm beneath it, underwater world, and finally, dragons.

In Indian mythology, Nagas are primarily serpent-beings living under the sea. But in Thailand country the mythology of Naga inhabitant in the river.

All nagas are considered the offspring of the Rishi or sage, Kasyapa, the son of Marichi. Kashyapa is said to have had by his twelve wives, other diverse progeny including reptiles, birds, and all sorts of living beings. They are denizens of the netherworld city called Bhogavati.

Nagas are a race of semidivine serpent creatures in Hindu and Buddhist mythology. Female Nagas are called Nagis or Naginis. Usually depicted as human above the waist and snake below the waist, Nagas can also change shape to appear fully human or snake. Nagas and Nagis are known for their strength, supernatural wisdom, and good looks. When Nagis take human form, they can marry mortal men, and some Indian dynasties claim descent from them.

According to legend, Nagas are children of Kadru, the granddaughter of the god Brahma*, and her husband, Kasyapa. Nagas lived on earth at first, but their numbers became so great that Brahma sent them to live under the sea. They reside in magnificent jeweled palaces and rule as kings at the bottom of rivers and lakes and in the underground realm called Patala. Like humans, Nagas show wisdom and concern for others but also cowardice and injustice. Nagas are immortal and potentially dangerous. Some are demons; others seem friendly and are worshiped as gods. Nagas also serve as protectors and guardians of treasure—both material riches and spiritual wealth.

Many legends and stories are attributed to these ancient Naga people of India. In Epic literature describes that certain acts of these Naga people cannot be performed by the average human beings. When time demanded, they assumed the human form from time to time; and stories were told in the writings that the 'Naga-people appearing mysteriously and then escaping to the depths of the ocean. The Nagas are mentioned in the Puranas as a race Many legends and stories are attributed to these ancient Naga people of India. In Epic literature describes that certain acts of these Naga people cannot be performed by the average human beings. When time demanded, they assumed the human form from time to time; and stories were told in the writings that the 'Naga-people appearing mysteriously and then escaping to the depths of the ocean. The Nagas are mentioned in the Puranas as a race 5 of serpents who inhabited the “Patalaloka” or the nether regions.”

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/N%C4%81ga

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phaya_Naga