Nag Panchami - 9th August 2024 - LifeGuru

Nag Panchami is a revered Hindu festival observed across India, dedicated to the worship of snakes, particularly the serpent god, Nag Devta. Celebrated on the fifth day (Panchami) of the bright half of the lunar month of Shravana, typically falling in July or August, Nag Panchami holds significant cultural and religious importance.

Devotees offer prayers, milk, honey, and flowers to snake idols or images, seeking protection from snake bites and blessings for their families' well-being. The festival signifies reverence for nature and the recognition of snakes' role in maintaining ecological balance, fostering harmony between humans and serpents.

Nag Panchami 2024 Timings, Rituals, Pujas and Mantras

Rituals of Nag Panchami 2024

People dress traditionally and take baths. Women in Maharashtra wear sarees called "Nauvaari," or nine yards. Black sesame ladoos and coconut sweets are made and presented to the snake god. People eat food that has gone bad because it was made the day before. On this day, people refrain from excavating and plowing the field to protect the snakes. People avoid cutting in the fields because they run the risk of hurting snakes.

Nag Panchami 2024 Timings

Nagpanchami is observed on Friday, August 9, 2024 in the states of Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu. This is in accordance with the Amavasyant Calendar, which is mostly used by residents of our nation's Eastern and Southern regions.

Pujas of Nag Panchami 2024

Clay snake idols are created and worshipped at home with flowers, milk, turmeric, grass, and kumkum. The snakes' holes and burrows are stocked with milk and flowers. A sculpture of the snake god made of red dirt or cow dung is also kept close to the front door of the home. Rice, sewaiya, and kheer are ready to be offered as a worship offering. Sandalwood is used during the worship of the snake god, and specific Nag Mantras are performed to please him.

Mantras of Nag Panchami 2024

The Nag Panchami mantra, recited during the worship of snakes on this auspicious day, invokes blessings and protection from snake bites. It is a prayer for harmony between humans and serpents, seeking their goodwill and benevolence. Chanting the Nag Panchami mantra is believed to ward off snake-related dangers and bring prosperity and peace to the devotee's life.

Mantras have been believed to have various benefits including promoting focus and concentration, calming the mind, and invoking positive energies. Regular chanting of mantras is thought to cultivate inner peace, spiritual growth, and overall well-being.

What to avoid on Nag Panchami?

Serpent Sensitivities: Foods and Activities to Steer Clear Of

On Nag Panchami, it is advisable to avoid certain activities to show respect for the serpent Gods. These include:

• • Avoiding activities that harm or disturb snakes, such as ploughing the earth or cutting down trees.

  • Refrain from using sharp objects like knives or needles.

  • Do not cook in iron vessels or use iron pans.

  • Avoid feeding milk directly to live snakes.

  • Be mindful of actions that could potentially harm snakes.

• By following these practices, one can maintain a respectful and auspicious atmosphere on Nag Panchami.

Respect and Restraint: Cultural Taboos During Nag Panchami

Avoid Harming Snakes and Their Habitats

• Do not plough the earth or dig the ground, as this can harm or kill snakes residing in the soil.
• Do not cut down trees, as snakes may be living or hiding in them.
• Refrain from feeding milk directly to live snakes, as milk is considered poisonous to them.
• Avoid disturbing or troubling any living snakes, as it is considered a sin.
• Steer Clear of Inauspicious Activities
• Do not sew with needles and threads, as this is considered inauspicious.
• Avoid using sharp, pointed objects like knives, scissors, etc. as they are considered inauspicious.
• Do not cook food in iron vessels or put an iron pan on the fire, as this can hurt the snake god.

The key is to be mindful and respectful of snakes on this day dedicated to the serpent gods. Avoiding actions that could potentially harm them or be considered inauspicious is an important part of the Nag Panchami observance.

The Story of Nag Panchami

One of the most famous legends associated with Nag Panchami involves Lord Krishna. While playing near the Yamuna river, Krishna's ball fell into the water, leading him to encounter the serpent Kaliya. Kaliya attacked Krishna, but Krishna subdued the snake. Realizing Krishna's divinity, Kaliya and his wives begged for mercy. Krishna spared Kaliya's life after receiving a promise that he would no longer trouble the residents of Gokul. Nag Panchami commemorates this victory of Krishna over Kaliya.

Another story tells of Janamejaya, who sought to avenge his father Parikshit's death by arranging a Nag Yagya to exterminate snakes. Aastik Muni, the son of Rishi Jaratkaru, intervened and halted the Yajna on Shravan Shukla Panchami, the same day Nag Panchami is celebrated.

Why is Nag Panchami celebrated in India?

Nag Panchami has a number of legends associated with her. According to one myth, Lord Krishna brought out the Yamuna River by plunging into it while he was playing nearby. But Kaliya Nag made a move against him. Kaliya Nag was defeated by Lord Krishna. When he realized he was not your typical youngster, he pleaded with Krishna for forgiveness. Krishna spared his life, but he had to swear not to hurt the people of Gokul ever again. Lord Krishna's triumph over Kaliya Nag is commemorated on Nag Panchami.

Importance of Nag Panchami

In the past, this holiday was frequently observed in communities by locals as a way to ward off snake and serpent bites. Their goals were to safeguard their family and appease the serpent god. It is a noteworthy and important celebration, particularly in several regions of Maharashtra. Nepal and other regions of the nation also commemorate it. In South India, there are distinct ceremonies for Nag Panchami.

This holiday is observed with zeal, faith, and devotion by the populace. Seeking the blessings of the snake god in life is a good idea. You are also paying attention to nature and animals when you worship snakes.