In the context of Somayaga rituals such as the Agnistoma, the term "Nidhana" holds significance in two distinct aspects:
Musical Chanting Component: Within the framework of
Somayagas, particularly in rituals like the Agnistoma, certain mantras from the
Sama Veda known as "samans" are chanted melodiously. These samans
consist of five parts: prastava, udgitha, pratihara, upadrava, and nidhana.
Each part is assigned to specific priests: prastotir, udgatir, pratihartir,
udgatir, and all three priests together respectively. The "Nidhana"
segment, being the last, typically involves interjections such as
"sat," "sam," "suvah," "ida,"
"vak," and "a." This part contributes to the musical and
ritualistic essence of the chant.
Physical Component: Additionally, "Nidhana" can
refer to a physical item used in the ritual. In this context, it denotes a
bundle of grass, typically a handful in quantity, which is spread on the vedi
or the sacrificial altar. This act symbolizes an offering or preparation
integral to the sacrificial process.
Therefore, "Nidhana" plays a dual role within the
framework of Somayaga rituals—both as a musical component in the chanting of
specific mantras and as a physical element involved in the ritualistic
preparations.