Finding Roots of ‘Himal and Nagrai’ – A Kashmiri Folktale

Kashmir is known for its folktale culture. These tales vary in themes are even considered to be offering wisdom to the local population. In our conversation with Ashraf Ravi, a scholar speaks about the genesis of Himal and Nagrai folktale and its relevance. Raavi talks about the relevance and importance of preserving folklore in a society. There are two springs named after Himal and Nagrai in Shopian. Himal and Nagrai’ is a tale that beautifully blends mythology into a legendary love story. The story begins with a Brahmin trying to kill his wife by letting loose a serpent on her, who transforms into a baby boy and eventually grows up to be Nagrai, the King of serpents.