Latest news with #Nagamani
News18
24-07-2025
- Science
- News18
Did A Snake Leave 'Nagamani' In Bihar School? What It Really Is
Indian Puranas and folk tales often attribute mystical powers to snakes, giving rise to legends about 'Nagamani', a mythical gem believed to possess miraculous properties A crystal-like object, believed to be left behind by a venomous Gehuman snake, has sparked curiosity and panic at a school in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district. Found on the premises of Sahibganj School, the transparent object resembles plastic and is being referred to by locals as a ' Nagamani ', a mythical gem often associated with serpents in folklore. The incident has reignited long-standing myths and prompted speculation about the existence of such objects and their connection to snakes. Nagamani, or 'snake's gem," is a concept rooted in mythology and folklore, but it lacks scientific evidence. Science clearly states that no such gem or mani is found within the body of snakes. Despite numerous claims of finding such a gem, investigations often reveal that these objects are not genuine. What Snakes Leave Behind That Are Mistaken For Gems Some snakes, like cobras, have shiny or spherical scales on their heads that can appear gem-like. Additionally, calcified masses found in a snake's stomach can be mistaken for a 'gem." Nagamani and its supposed miraculous properties. Despite these stories, there is no scientific basis for the belief that Nagamani can provide miraculous treatment or wealth. Can Snakes Really Produce Gems? Science confirms that snakes do not possess the ability to produce gems. Thieves often exploit this myth by selling fake 'Nagamani', usually made of glass or plastic and pasted onto a snake's head. Snakes cannot produce diamonds, pearls, or any other gems due to their body structure. Glass-Like Particles Snakes Sometimes Leave Behind Snakes sometimes leave behind shiny, glass-like particles while moving, which are often mistaken for something mysterious. In reality, these are usually tiny scales or remnants of old skin, completely natural byproducts of the shedding process. Snakes regularly shed their skin, and during this process, small fragments of their upper skin or protein-rich scales may fall off. These scales are made of keratin, the same protein found in human nails and hair. When light hits them, their shiny surface can resemble glass, leading to confusion and myths. This Snake Shedding Can Also Resemble A Crystal Snakes have a shiny layer on their skin that reflects light, and when small parts of it break off, they can resemble crystals. Additionally, snakes excrete uric acid instead of liquid urine. This appears as a white, chalky, crystalline substance, which can sometimes look like tiny, shiny particles, often mistaken for something unusual. This Snake Substance Is Also Mistaken For Nagamani Some snakes secrete a protein-rich mucus from their skin, which can appear transparent or shiny once dried. These natural secretions are sometimes mistakenly believed to be parts of a ' Nagamani ', a widespread misconception. To date, there is no scientific evidence supporting the existence of any real object like the Nagamani. Similar myths existed in medieval Europe as well, where a so-called ' Sarpmani ' was believed to have the power to neutralise poison. When So-Called Nagamanis Turned Out To Be Fake Materials sold as ' Nagamani ' have often been found to be fake, made of glass, plastic, or animal parts. In 2015, IIT-BHU scientists examined one such item and identified it as calcium carbonate, a common stone. Fraudsters sometimes glue artificial gems onto snakes' heads and sell them for lakhs by falsely claiming they are ' Nagamani '. In 2018, a case from Madhya Pradesh surfaced where a man was duped of Rs 2 crore in such a scam. Location : Muzaffarpur, India, India First Published: July 24, 2025, 14:50 IST News viral Did A Snake Leave 'Nagamani' In Bihar School? What It Really Is | Explained Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
21-07-2025
- General
- Time of India
Malayalam film sparks discourse on seating arrangement in Telangana's classrooms
Hyderabad: As more schools in Telangana adopt U-shaped seating, a concept popularised by a Malayalam film, teachers are divided on its practicality. While some see its merit in boosting interaction and engagement, many believe the setup poses challenges in large classrooms, especially for subjects that rely on traditional teaching tools like the blackboard. According to them, it is only a long-held notion that backbenchers are troublemakers and need to be continuously monitored. Student strength, classroom size and audibility are various factors that might prevent many teachers from adopting U-shaped seating, teachers opined. Nagamani, a high school social studies teacher, who first experimented with the format in 2009 for Class 1 students, said, 'If the class size is small, around 20-25 students, this method can be effective.' You Can Also Check: Hyderabad AQI | Weather in Hyderabad | Bank Holidays in Hyderabad | Public Holidays in Hyderabad 'I've tried it in Classes 9 and 10 while teaching history, it works well for discussions. But for subjects like mathematics or physics, where blackboard use is constant, it's of no help,' Nagamani said. M Ravinder, a govt school mathematics teacher, warned against blindly following trends. 'In my experience, some of the brightest students sit at the back, while many academically weaker ones prefer the front, often because teachers don't ask them questions if they sit in the front benches. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Earn Upto 5k Daily By This Method of Intraday Trading TradeWise Learn More Undo This seating shouldn't be adopted just because it worked in a movie,' he said, adding that overcrowded classrooms make such arrangements nearly impossible. Many teachers are now leaning towards a blended approach, choosing seating styles based on the nature of the lesson — U-shaped for storytelling or debates, circular for group activities, and traditional rows for note-taking and board work. 'We can't make students sit in a U-shape all day. Writing notes becomes a challenge, and poor posture might even lead to neck strain,' said Simi Nagi, principal of a private school in Hyderabad. 'But when used selectively, for discussions or interactive sessions, it's a good tool. Flexibility is key.' Some educators also stress the importance of adapting classroom layouts to suit the lesson plan rather than sticking to a fixed model. 'Rigid classrooms limit learning. What matters more is how the setup supports the teaching objective,' added Simi Nagi. Meanwhile, Hyderabad collector Hari Chandana Dasari said they are experimenting with this new way of seating in the city. 'We are starting with residential schools with ample space. Based on the results, we will decide on expanding it to other schools,' she said and pointed out that this U-shaped seating is already implemented in several states. As Telangana experiments with this 'U-turn' in classroom design, the consensus among educators seems clear: seating should support learning and not just follow a trend.
Time of India
16-07-2025
- Science
- Time of India
Do cobras really have 'Nagmanis'? The truth behind the snake pearl myth
Source: Geology In Have you ever come across the term "Snake Pearl" or "Nagamani" and wondered if such a mystical object could truly exist? Rooted in centuries of folklore, especially in South Asia, Nagamani has long captivated believers and skeptics alike. Said to be a rare, glowing gem found in the heads of cobras, this legendary object is often associated with divine power, protection, and fortune. Despite its presence in myths, movies, and spiritual beliefs, scientific investigations tell a very different story. Explore the origins, alleged powers, and controversies surrounding the mythical Nagamani. What is a Nagamani or snake pearl The term Nagamani comes from Sanskrit — where "Naga" means snake and "Mani" means gem or jewel. According to traditional beliefs, this mystical pearl is said to form inside the head of venomous snakes, most commonly cobras. Legends claim it glows in the dark and bestows immense spiritual and material power to its possessor, including protection from evil, healing powers, and incredible luck. Do cobras really have Nagmanis According to Geology In, the idea that cobras possess a glowing gem called Nagamani in their heads has long fascinated believers across India and Southeast Asia. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 요즘 SNS에서 핫한 그 반지, 기부로 받을 수 있다고? 굿네이버스 더 알아보기 Undo However, modern science firmly rejects this claim. Biologically, cobras do not have the anatomical ability to form pearls—unlike mollusks. Scientific analyses of so-called "snake pearls" reveal they are often gallstones or mineral concretions, not true gemstones. These formations may occur inside snake bodies, but they lack any supernatural properties. The enduring myth of Nagamani stems more from cultural symbolism and folklore than scientific fact, illustrating humanity's deep desire to assign mystery and meaning to nature's creatures. Mythology behind Nagamani or snake pearl In Hindu mythology and regional folklore, snakes are not just reptiles — they're divine beings. Nagas are often worshipped and believed to hold secrets of the universe. The Nagamani is said to be a jewel they guard or possess. Stories often describe snake charmers or ascetics receiving the Nagamani as a reward from a mystical serpent for their devotion. It is also portrayed in temples, mythological texts, and even Bollywood films as a divine, glowing gem of untold power. Why do people believe in Nagamani Spiritual significance: In many cultures, snakes symbolize protection, wisdom, and hidden power. Media influence: Films and TV shows like Naagin have sensationalized Nagamani legends. Oral traditions: The myth is passed down through generations, especially in rural India and Southeast Asia. Symbolism: It serves as a metaphor for hidden strength and the supernatural. Snake Pearls are believed to: Glow in the dark Detect poison Change colour with mood or danger Heal physical or spiritual ailments Attract wealth or good fortune Some even claim that possession of a Nagamani can make someone immortal or allow communication with divine beings. Why modern science debunks the myth of Nagamani Modern herpetologists and gemologists agree on one thing — no biological process supports the existence of a pearl inside a snake's head. Snakes do not have the anatomy to produce pearls, unlike mollusks. Some so-called 'snake pearls' examined by scientists have turned out to be gallstones or mineral concretions (similar to kidney stones). These may form naturally around debris inside a snake's body but hold no magical properties. A few specimens presented as 'Nagamani' have been analyzed and found to consist of a mix of organic material, calcium, and protein, but none qualify as gems or pearls under scientific standards. The myth of Nagamani holds power beyond science While the physical existence of Nagamani is highly questionable, its cultural power is undeniable. It serves as a symbol of: Hidden strength or divine reward The mystique of nature and the animal world Human fascination with the unknown In this way, Nagamani behaves more like a mythical talisman than a geological object — powerful not because it exists, but because it has been believed in for centuries. Despite countless stories and portrayals, there is no scientific evidence supporting the existence of the Nagamani. It is most likely a product of folklore, symbolism, and cultural storytelling — possibly originating from rare stones found in snake carcasses and misidentified as mystical objects. Also Read | Simpsons prediction of Labubu doll goes viral: Video sparks fear about creepy toy's dark origins
New Indian Express
09-07-2025
- New Indian Express
Man dupes woman of Rs 28 crore through fake marriage
CHITTOOR: A woman from Rajpet in Ramakuppam Mandal, Chittoor district, has alleged that she was defrauded of assets worth Rs 28 crore by a man who deceived her into marriage by faking the deaths of his wife and daughter. The victim, Nagamani (50), filed a complaint with the police on Monday seeking justice. Nagamani, who had lost her son in a road accident and her husband Venkatappa Reddy to illness, decided to remarry and approached a matchmaker. She was introduced to Shivaprasad from Seshapuram in Bangarupalyam mandal. Unbeknownst to her, Shivaprasad was already married with a daughter. Shivaprasad allegedly produced fake death certificates for his wife and daughter, claiming they had died of COVID-19. He then married Nagamani with the intent of seizing her wealth. Using forged documents, he persuaded her to transfer funds into the accounts of his family members, claiming he was due a large sum from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). He also forged her signatures to sell land in Bengaluru worth Rs 15 crore and a building valued at Rs 10 crore, in addition to mortgaging her jewellery. After absconding, Nagamani discovered his deception. Probe is underway.
Hans India
20-06-2025
- Hans India
Collector inspects Sakhi Centre
Anantapur: District Collector Dr Vinod Kumar conducted a surprise inspection of the Sakhi Centre (One Stop Center) located on the premises of the Government District Headquarters Hospital in Anantapur. He was accompanied by Project Director Nagamani (District Women and Child Welfare Department), RMO Dr Hemalatha, and Urban Tahsildar Hari. During the visit, he stressed that Central and State governments have implemented several welfare programmes for women, and it is the responsibility of the concerned departments to ensure women are fully aware of these schemes. He instructed the PD to organise awareness programmes every month at the Sakhi Centre and directed that all staff at the centre must function strictly in accordance with the law. He inquired about the number of staff, the types of services provided to women facing distress, and the nature of issues commonly reported. He reviewed counseling records, registers, and services offered, including legal aid, medical assistance, police help, temporary shelter, and protection support. He also examined the checklists and file maintenance systems, urging staff to maintain all documentation properly. The Collector was briefed by Sakhi Centre Manager Shantamani, who reported that since 2006, 1,914 cases have been registered under the Domestic Violence Act, out of which 1,290 cases have been resolved, 592 are under court trial, and 32 cases are under investigation by Protection Officers. Sakhi Centre staff stated that 24/7 services are available for women in need, offering integrated support including counseling, legal advice, medical care, police intervention, and shelter. Officials who attended the inspection include Deputy RMO Padmaja, Medical College Principal Manikya Rao, DCPO Manjunath, SI Bharathi, Social Counselor Umadevi, Legal Counselor A Narmada, Data Entry Operator Geethamma, and Home Guards PR Bharathi and Shakeer Basha.
