Sacred ‘Ringu Van’ in Himachal Protected by Serpent Deity, Echoes ‘Kantara!

In a fascinating blend of faith and conservation reminiscent of the film Kantara, a sacred forest in Himachal Pradesh is believed to be protected by a serpent deity known as Ringu Nag. Spread across nearly 62 acres in the Banjar region of the Sainj Valley in Kullu district, the forest is locally called “Ringu Van.” Entry into the forest, cutting trees, or lighting fires is strictly prohibited. Even forest officials are not permitted to enter without prior approval from local village councils. Warning boards placed outside the forest clearly communicate these restrictions.

Despite widespread deforestation in surrounding hills due to illegal activities, Ringu Van continues to thrive with lush greenery, a phenomenon previously noted by a UNESCO team. The Ringu Nag deity holds cultural importance during the famous Kullu Dussehra, where the deity’s chariot is a major attraction. Locals believe the deity manifests in three forms—serpent, lion, and ram. According to priest Ramesh Chand, villagers enter the forest only during specific occasions like Saja Vaishakh and Nag Panchami, observing strict fasting rituals, further reinforcing the sacredness and preservation of the forest.