<P> Ichchadhari Naag (male) or Naagin (female) are mythical shape - shifting cobras in Indian folklore . These creatures would obtain their power by living for 100 years and not biting any living beings . They prefer to be in the form of a human being most of the time . </P> <P> Ichchadhari Naag, in snake form, possess a gem called "Naag Mani", considered much more valuable than a diamond . Legends tell of many people losing their lives through snake bites, when the snakes took revenge for stolen Mani, or if either of a pair of snakes was killed . According to legend, the snakes can be controlled using Been, the musical instrument used by snake charmers . It is believed that it is the idol of snakes, but there is no proof of this . These types of snakes will take revenge on anyone who disturbs them . </P> <P> The legends of Ichchhadhari Naag have been used as a plot basis for many comic plot and stories . The comic book superhero character "Nagraj" ("Cobra - King") is also based on these legends . There is another famous Hindi comic character, named Tausi, who was a male shape shifting snake . Apart from these, the concept had been used for many children's short stories . </P> <P> Many Bollywood movies incorporate the Ichchhadhari Naag legends, or the character of Nagraj, such as Nagin (1954 film), Sridevi in the 1986 movie Nagina, and Reena Roy in Nagin (1976 film). </P>

What is the difference between nag and snake