Nag Panchami is a traditional Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of snakes or serpents, celebrated throughout India and Nepal. Observed on the fifth day of the bright half of the lunar month of Shravan (July/August) according to the Hindu calendar, this festival holds great religious significance. The day is marked by rituals and offerings to snake deities, believed to reside in Patala Lok, the netherworld, with Naga-Loka being the specific realm of these serpent beings. Hindus seek the blessings of these serpents for the welfare of their families, recognizing their role in the cosmic order.

The rituals of Nag Panchami involve the reverence of serpent deities, which are often represented by images or idols made of silver, stone, or wood. Sometimes, paintings of snakes are made on walls, and these images are ritually bathed in milk as an offering. This act symbolizes purity and devotion, reflecting the deep connection between humans and nature in Hindu belief. The festival’s roots can be traced back to Hindu Puranic literature, where it is mentioned that Kashyapa, a son of Lord Brahma, had four wives, one of whom, Kadru, was the mother of the Nagas, or serpent beings. The other wives gave birth to Devas (gods), Garuda (a mythical bird), and Daityas (demons), respectively, each representing different forces of creation.

In essence, Nag Panchami is a significant festival that underscores the importance of living in harmony with all creatures. By honoring snakes, Hindus express their respect for nature and the vital role these beings play in the world. The festival is a reminder of the interconnectedness of life and the need to maintain balance with the natural world, a theme that is deeply woven into the fabric of Hindu culture and mythology.

Chrysa Sunuwar (Grade: 9)