Why Kukke Subrahmanya’s Ashlesha Bali Puja Is So Revered – News18

The Ashlesha Bali Puja is a sacred ritual held in Kukke Subrahmanya, aimed at seeking the divine protection of the Almighty against Sarpa Dosha, Naga Dosha, Kuja Dosha, and Kala Sarpa Dosha. This time-honoured tradition has been practised since ancient times and is rooted in the worship of snakes, as detailed in various Puranas. Devotees believe that this puja provides relief from a range of afflictions, including health issues, marital problems, fertility challenges, and more.

The Ashlesha Nakshatram marks the auspicious day for this special puja, during which Lord Subrahmanya is invoked to dispel the doshas. Ashlesh Bali Homa, a fire ritual, is also performed as a remedy to mitigate the adverse effects of Rahu and Ketu. The serene Kukke Subrahmanya temple, situated in the village of Subramanya within the Dakshina Kannada district, serves as the sacred venue for these rituals.

In astrological terms, Ashlesha is one of the 27 constellations, symbolizing inseparability. Hindu mythology links this constellation to the births of Lakshmana and Shatrughna. Individuals born under Ashlesha are advised to make regular pilgrimages to Sri Subrahmanya Swamy or Sri Narasimha Swamy temples. Visiting the Durga temple is also considered auspicious and conducive to positive outcomes.

The Ashlesha Bali Puja is not limited to those born under the Ashlesha constellation; anyone, regardless of their astrological sign, is welcome to partake in this ritual, whether on a monthly or yearly basis. The puja serves to rectify doshas in one’s birth chart and can positively impact various aspects of life, including education, health, and agricultural endeavours.

During the Bali Puja, special rites are performed to appease the Nagadevtas (serpent deities), involving offerings of pinda Bali (rice balls), tarpan (ritual libations), fruits, and flowers to the 84 nagas. This comprehensive ceremony combines puja (prayers), homa (fire ritual), and Bali (food offerings) in honour of the Nagadevtas.

Over time, the Kukke Subrahmanya temple has drawn a diverse array of devotees, including renowned personalities like cricketers Manish Pandey and Sachin Tendulkar, Bollywood actor Ajay Devgn, and numerous dignitaries and politicians.