Bodu Naga: The Serpent Spirit of the Lagoon
Bodu Naga is a great serpent spirit in Maldivian folklore inhabiting lagoons, reefs, and deep channels between islands. In pre-Islamic Maldives, Nagas were revered as powerful nature spirits associated with the waters that surrounded the atolls. Fishermen offered prayers and small offerings before venturing into waters believed to be guarded by Bodu Naga to ensure safe passage and abundant catch. The entity is part of a broader Maldivian tradition of spirit beings (handi, fureytha, dhevi) that could appear in human form — often as beautiful women or well-built men — to lure humans. The Bodu Na