The oldest religion in Kashmir was Naga worship, also known as snake cult.
Ancient Religious Practices in Kashmir
According to the provided reference, the earliest inhabitants of Kashmir were tribes who worshipped Nag, or snakes. This practice is known as Naga worship or the snake cult. This form of religion predates the arrival of Vedic Aryans.
Key Aspects of Naga Worship
- Indigenous Practice: The Naga cult was an indigenous religious practice of Kashmir.
- Pre-Vedic: It was established before the arrival of Vedic Aryans.
- Snake Deities: The primary focus was the worship of snakes.
Historical Shift
Later, the indigenous tribes who practiced Naga worship were displaced by the Vedic Aryans. This led to the spread of the Vedic religion in the region.
Table of Religious Evolution in Kashmir
| Period | Religion | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Vedic | Naga worship (snake cult) | Indigenous, focused on snake deities |
| Post-Vedic Incursion | Vedic Religion | Introduced by Vedic Aryans |
In conclusion, the historical record indicates that Naga worship represents the earliest form of religion practiced in Kashmir, before the subsequent arrival and influence of Vedic traditions.
