Naga Panchami

Naga Panchami is an ancient Hindu festival dedicated to serpent gods. In Hindu mythology, snakes—especially the king cobra—are considered sacred and linked with deities like Lord Shiva and Vishnu.

While snakes may evoke fear, this festival teaches reverence for all creatures and the balance of nature.

In Hindu mythology, snakes symbolize power, protection, and rebirth. They are associated with several deities:

• Lord Shiva wears a cobra around his neck.
• Lord Vishnu rests on the divine serpent Sheshnag.
• Manasa Devi, the serpent goddess, is widely worshipped in Bengal and Assam.

The festival is also observed to seek protection from snake bites, which were once common during the monsoon, when snakes come out of their burrows.

Though the core sentiment remains the same—reverence for snakes and nature—celebrations vary beautifully across regions.

• Worship of Snake Idols– Devotees create or bring home clay or silver idolsof cobras, or visit temples dedicated to serpent gods. Milk, turmeric, rice, sweets, and flowers are offered.
• Prayers and Fasting- Many devotees, especially women, observe fasts on this day. They chant Nag mantras and read stories from scriptures like the Skanda Purana and Mahabharata, where serpents play key roles.
• Drawing Serpent Symbols- At the entrances of homes or courtyards, images of snakes are drawn with rice paste, Sindoor, or sandalwood. These are worshipped with diyas and incense.
• Worship at Snake Burrows or Anthills- In rural areas, live anthills or snake burrows are considered sacred sites. Milk and flowers are poured at these spots to honor the unseen Nāgas believed to dwell there.

Nag Panchami isn’t just a festival- it’s a message to Respect Nature. It teaches us to honor all living beings, even those we fear.The snake sheds its skin, symbolizing renewal, transformation, and the eternal cycle of life.In ancient times, praying to Nāgas was believed to protect crops, water sources, and homes.

Nag Panchami is a deeply spiritual and culturally rich festival that reminds us of the delicate bond between humans and the natural world. It invites us to move beyond fear and embrace understanding, celebrating a creature often misunderstood but eternally significant in Indian tradition.

Wishing you a blessed and meaningful Naga Panchami 2025!