Legend associated with Naag Panchami

Naag Panchami has special significance in Hindu mythology. This day is celebrated on fifth day after new moon or full moon. Dedicated in the honor of serpent god, Naag Panchami falls in the month of Sharavan. During this festival, snake is worshipped as mentor of Shiva and other gods as well.

Festivity

During this time, five Nagas are worshipped namely Vasuki, Pingala, Karkotaka, Taxak and Ananta. Snakes are offered milk and are also adorned with silver jewelry so as to protect them from al the evils. Naag Panchami is celebrated to commemorate Lord Krishna’s victory over serpent, Kalia. On this day, married woman visit their parents and swings are put on for the enjoyment of village people. Besides this, many women fast on this day. Offerings are provided to snakes in the form of sweets, milk, rice, ghee, water and many more. Moreover, the day is celebrated with songs and folk dances in the countryside.

Regional Celebrations

Naag Panchami is observed particularly in Maharashtra, Bengal and Southern India. Moreover, in the city of Jodhpur cloth effigies of cobras are displayed in major fairs as well. In the parts of Assam, West Bengal and Orissa, deities of snakes are worshipped in the name of goddess Manasa. Huge crowds visit the temples of snakes to worship metal icons of serpent Shesha or Ananta.