Celebrated primarily in Nepal and some regions of India, Nag Panchami (नागपञ्चमी) is a traditional Hindu festival devoted to the worship of Snakes (Nāgas). This festival is celebrated with great fervor and cultural significance in Bhaktapur, Nepal.
In the hopes of pleasing the gods and obtaining an abundance of rain for the upcoming paddy-cultivation season, milk is offered to serpent deities on this day, and vibrant snake pictures are affixed to gateways.
The main features of Nag Panchami in Bhaktapur are as follows:
1. Rituals & Worship-Individuals present snake statues or representations of Nag Devta (Serpent Deities) with Betteb rice, milk, flowers, and prayers. Some people put snake statues next to water sources or go to temples like Nag Pokhari, a sacred pond connected to snakes.
- Cultural Practices – To ward against snake bites and evil spirits, many homes display Naga (Snake) images over their entryway. Prayers are said specifically for the family’s welfare.
3. Joyful Ambience- In the historic squares and temples of Bhaktapur, worshippers carry out ceremonies. As offerings, traditional Newari meals and sweets are prepared.
4. Mythological Importance– Worshiping snakes on this day is said to bring rain, fertility, and wealth, according to Hindu traditions. It is also connected to the Mahabharata story of Astika Muni stopping King Janamejaya‘s Snake sacrifice (Sarpa Satra).
When is the celebration of Nag Panchami?
-In the month of Shrawan (July/August), it occurs on the Fifth day (Panchami) of the brilliant fortnight (Shukla Paksha).
Nag Panchami is predicted to be observed on Today, July 29 in 2025 (the exact date may change depending on the Lunar calendar).
Additionally, it is common to ignite incense sticks and worship the serpent by offering Dubo, Milk, Akshata, and other items. In addition to presenting Milk as an offering and special foods prepared from Milk and Fresh Fruits cultivated in the fields, a cotton Serpent is constructed and worshipped at the locations of the clan serpents using objects like Akshata and Abir.
By worshiping a Serpent on Nag Panchami, it is said that a snake will enter the house and live there with Goddess Lakshmi, according to religious traditions. Worshiping a Snake as the God of rain and water has a long history in Hinduism. Before the Vedic Era, Serpent worship is thought to have been a prevalent practice.
