09/01/2026
Book Review
Title: Ramban: Folklore–History–Ophiolatry
Author: Robin Koul
Publisher: Apna Book Publisher, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
Pages: 172
ISBN: 978-93-6303-568-3
About the Author:
Robin Koul is an engineer by profession and a folklorist by passion, presently posted in the Ramban district of Jammu & Kashmir. Deeply rooted in the land, traditions, folklore, and cultural heritage of the region, he is driven by a strong commitment to preserve and document its ancient traditions for future generations.
His literary journey began with The Yaksha’s Cap and Other Stories (2019), a collection of short stories published by Emerald Publishers, Chennai. Over the years, Koul has undertaken extensive field-based research, travelling to remote and often inaccessible areas of Ramban district to collect invaluable oral histories that were on the brink of extinction. These narratives, preserved for generations through oral transmission, were recorded through in-depth interactions with local communities.
Through his dedicated research, the author has rediscovered and documented more than fifty historical and sacred sites associated with ancient stone horseman sculptures, Pakharrs, and indigenous deities, many of which had remained undocumented until now.
About the Book:
Ramban: Folklore–History–Ophiolatry is the author’s second major work and presents an in-depth study of the traditions, beliefs, and cultural landscape of Ramban, a mountainous district in the Chenab Valley of Jammu & Kashmir. The book meticulously documents folklore and traditional knowledge from this region and offers valuable insights into the historical, spiritual, and cultural life of its people.
A significant focus of the book is Ophiolatry (snake worship), a deeply entrenched belief system that continues to shape the faith, rituals, and daily lives of the local population. The narratives presented in the book serve as important resources for scholars and researchers in anthropology, linguistics, cultural sociology, archaeology, ethnomusicology, social ethnography, origin myths, and studies of human migration.
Content Overview:
Set against the rugged and majestic backdrop of the Chenab Valley, the book explores a rich mosaic of ancient beliefs, sacred rituals, and historical legends that together form the cultural identity of Ramban. The author takes the reader on a journey through the serpentine spiritual traditions of the region, where Naga worship occupies a central place.
Almost every mountain peak and surrounding landscape in Ramban is associated with a specific Naga deity. At the apex of this sacred hierarchy stands Shankhpal Devta, the principal deity of the Lander region. Situated at an altitude of 9,530 feet on the Shankhpal ridge, the ancient temple dedicated to this Serpent God is a remarkable example of dry-stone architecture, constructed without mortar. The arduous pilgrimage through dense forests and treacherous terrain underscores the profound spiritual significance of Naga worship among the local populace.
In the Zundhar area, Lakru Dada Ji is revered as a guiding and protective deity. Often depicted as a white-clad rider on a black horse, he is believed to guide lost travellers and safeguard the community. His temple, located on the route to Gham village, is a spiritual refuge where offerings of jaggery and Shereni are made. Local lore associates him with cremation grounds, symbolising his connection with the cycles of life and death.
The book also sheds light on other prominent deities such as Baba Bansul, known for his spiritual wisdom and lasting influence on the community; Chousar Naag Devta, worshipped for protection and prosperity; and Traman Devta, a guardian deity believed to maintain harmony and balance within villages. Kicholi Mata, often associated with Lakru Dada Ji, holds a significant place in the local pantheon, with her shrine serving as a centre for prayers related to health and well-being.
Adding a historical dimension to the narrative is the Gajpat Fort, perched atop a mountain and bearing silent testimony to the region’s turbulent past, including periods of imprisonment and rebellion. The fort enriches the cultural and historical connections of Ramban, described in the book.
Critical Appreciation:
While the book documents several major deities of Ramban, it humbly acknowledges that many remain unknown beyond the remote mountain communities where they continue to silently bless their devotees. Through its exploration of these sacred sites and belief systems, the book offers a nuanced understanding of Ramban’s Naga worship culture and traces the mythological origins of Nagas across ancient texts, folklore, and regional traditions.
The work successfully bridges the ancient and the contemporary, the mythical and the historical. In doing so, it opens pathways for broader interdisciplinary inquiry, encompassing anthropology, linguistics, archaeology, cultural sociology, ethnomusicology, etiological studies, and human migration. The book stands as an important contribution to the preservation of Jammu & Kashmir’s intangible cultural heritage.
Conclusion:
Ramban: Folklore–History–Ophiolatry is a significant and timely work that brings to light the largely undocumented spiritual and cultural legacy of Ramban. With its rich fieldwork, scholarly depth, and narrative sensitivity, the book is invaluable for researchers, historians, folklorists, and anyone interested in the cultural traditions of the Himalayan region.
Contact Details:
📧 Email: [email protected]
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📞 Phone: 8072699580
