Serpents as divine protectors: Significance of Nagara Panchami

Team Udayavani, Aug 21, 2023, 8:36 AM IST

Nagara Panchami, the first festival of the Shravan month, is a remarkable testament to India’s rich heritage and its deep-rooted connection to nature. In our ancient religion, we perceive divinity in all aspects of existence, from plants to animals. This holistic approach to spirituality is epitomized in rituals like Nagara Panchami, where serpents are revered as forms of God.

Celebrated on the auspicious Shuddha Panchami day of the Shravan month, Nagar Panchami holds special significance in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts. People offer milk, jaggery, and bananas to snakes, while engaging in Mangalarati and receiving prasadam. This tradition, although observed once a year, embodies the essence of Naga worship.

The roots of snake reverence run deep in our land, with references in ancient texts. The Nagara Panchami rituals, such as Nagaradhana and Sarpabali, have their origins in these narratives. The belief that snakes play a vital role in safeguarding the earth’s fertility has led to the tradition of worshiping them.

On this special day, devotees anoint and adorn snake idols with panchamrita – a mixture of milk, banana, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar. Turmeric is applied to keep the idols clean. Offering milk on this day is believed to purify the land, dispelling common snake-related fears.

In addition to temple celebrations, Nagara Panchami is also observed in places like Naga Vana, where devotees offer fruits and flowers to the serpents. Coastal regions, especially in Dakshina Kannada, hold unique puja ceremonies for the Nagas. This tradition, passed down through generations, is believed to grant blessings and fulfill wishes.

Worshiping snakes on Nagara Panchami is believed to counteract the malefic effects of celestial bodies and doshas.

Nagara Panchami, celebrated during the stable and auspicious Shravan season, holds the promise of prosperity and well-being. Decorating entrances with gomaya, rangoli, and Naga images, and worshiping them with devotion, is a cherished custom. This practice is said to bring blessings, solve problems, and promote harmony.