What is "astika"

n. (context Hinduism English) Technical term in Hinduism used to classify philosophical schools and persons, according to whether they accept the authority of the Vedas as supreme revealed scriptures, or not.

Astika was an ancient Hindu rishi (sage), and he was a son of Jaratkaru by the serpent goddess Manasa - a sister of the great serpent king Vasuki. According to the Mahabharata, he saved the life of a serpent Takshaka, the king of snakes, when king Janamejaya organized a snake sacrifice known as Sarpa Satra, where he made great sacrifices of serpents, to avenge for the death of his father Parikshit due to snake bite of Takshaka. Ultimately, he induced and prevailed upon the king to end his persecution of the serpent race. That day was Shukla Paksha Panchami in the month of Shravan and is since celebrated as the festival of Nag Panchami.

Astika may refer to:

• Āstika, a Hindu who believes in the Vedas
• Astika (Hinduism), a sage in Hindu mythology
• Astika (beer), a Bulgarian beer brand

Astika is a Bulgarian beer brand made in the city of Haskovo . The Astika Brewery was established in 1980, and in 1995 was bought by Kamenitza, itself currently owned by Molson Coors. It has two brands – Astika Light (originally Astika Lux) and Astika Dark (5.6%, sold in winter). As of 2012, Astika is sold in 600 ml bottles, with a pull-off top.