- By Kashish Rai
- Fri, 18 Aug 2023 01:10 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Nag Panchami 2023: On Panchami Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Shravan, Nag Panchami, or the “festival of the snake god” is celebrated. The Nag Panchami is observed with tremendous devotion on the fifth day of Shravan Shukla Paksha. According to Brahmapuran, Lord Brahma has given a boon to snakes to be worshiped on the day of Nag Panchami. On this day there is a ritual of worshiping Anant, Vasuki, Takshak, Karkotak, and Pingal Nag. One is liberated from Kalsarp defects and Rahu-Ketu birth defects by worshiping them. This year, Nag Panchami is being celebrated on the 21st of August, Monday.
Nag Panchami 2023: What Not To Do On The Festival
- Do Not Harm The Snakes: Hinduism regards snakes as deities. Although it is never advisable to injure a snake, it is especially important to avoid doing so on Nag Panchami. It is said that the seven generations have to undergo the negative consequences of harming the snakes.
- Do Not Dig The Land: On this day, one should avoid digging the land. By doing this, there is a fear of snakes' burrows or Bambi breaking in the soil or ground. It is believed that when snakes are injured, the family is ruined.
- Do Not Feed Milk To A Living Snake: On this day, don't give milk to a living snake. Since milk might be harmful to snakes, only offer it in front of their idols. According to veterinarians and animal rights advocates, a snake's digestive tract is completely incapable of digesting milk. Sometimes, forcing snakes to drink milk can kill them.
- Do Not Use Sharp Objects: On Nag Panchami, using sharp tools like knives and needles is frowned upon. Do not engage in sewing or embroidery as well.
Nag Panchami 2023: What To Do On The Festival
- Worship the Serpent God: Offer prayers to snake deities with proper rituals, typically depicted by idols or pictures of snakes. All around India, there are several temples devoted to snake gods. It is customary to pay a visit to these temples and make offerings of milk, flowers, and other things.
- Recite Nag Panchami Mantras: You can also recite various Nag Panchmi mantras such as ऊँ नमोस्तु सर्पेभ्यो ये के च पृथिवीमनु (Om Namostu Sarpebhyo Ye Ke Cha Prithivi Manu) to please the serpent lord.
(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert from the relevant field.)