A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology and Religion, Geography, History, and Literature c5.1216

c5.1216

The Nāgas, or a people bearing the same name, are historical, and have left many traces behind them. There were mountains so called, and Nāga-dwīpa was one of the seven divisions of Bhāratavarsha. Kings of this race reigned at Mathurā, Padmāvatī, &c., and the name survives in the modern Nāgpur. There are various speculations as to who and what they were, but it seems clear they were a race distinct from the Hindus. The mythological accounts are probably based upon the historical, but they have been mixed up together and confused. The favourite theory is that they were a Scythic race, and probably obtained their name from worshipping serpents or holding them in awe and reverence.