The Music and Musical Instruments of Southern India and the Deccan c5.29

c5.29

The râgas Nâgavarâli and Punâgatódi are believed to have the power to attract serpents and to make them leave their hiding places and come where they hear the music. There is a story of a certain Mysore prince who wished to test the truth of this, so, in company with one of the Court musicians, he ascended a neighbouring hill known as the abode of numerous poisonous snakes. The musicians then began to play their strains. From all sides the serpents came and formed a ring around the two, erecting their heads and swaying to and fro, fascinated by the music. As soon as the strains ceased they glided rapidly away without attempting to injure the players.