Nag Panchami 2023: Dos and Don'ts on this Auspicious Festival of Hinduism

Nag Panchami, a significant festival in Hinduism, is celebrated annually during the Savan festival. Falling on the fifth day of the Shukla Paksha, this auspicious occasion holds a special place in the hearts of devout Hindus. It is marked by various rituals, with devotees offering milk to the serpent deity in temples. Scheduled for August 21 this year, Nag Panchami comes with a set of guidelines and customs that are essential to observe. In this article, we delve into the rich traditions and beliefs surrounding Nag Panchami, emphasizing the importance of following these guidelines.

नाग पंचमी । #Nagpanchami 🙏🏼🔱 pic.twitter.com/sp9b6v8E0G

— Karan | करण (@KaranChougule01) August 20, 2023

Offerings to the Serpent Deity

Central to Nag Panchami is the act of presenting milk and honey to the snake deity at snake temples. This ritual is deeply rooted in Hindu tradition and is believed to bestow blessings and protect devotees from harm. Devotees view this act as a way of seeking favor from the serpent deity for their well-being and prosperity.

Acts of Charity

Nag Panchami is not just about offerings to deities but also extends to acts of kindness towards fellow humans. It is considered virtuous to offer food to the less fortunate on this day. This act of charity is believed to have the power to fulfill one's wishes and bring about positive changes in one's life.

The Sanctity of Snakes

Wishing all a joyous Nag Panchami! May this auspicious Parva usher in prosperity, harmony, and safeguard us from negativity. Let's reflect on and venerate the importance of serpent deities in our diverse and harmonious heritage. 🙏🏽🕉️ #NagPanchami pic.twitter.com/I9Mn7w0ABF

— Himanshu Kr Lal, IPS (@himanshulalips) August 21, 2023

A paramount aspect of Nag Panchami is the reverence for snakes, a symbol of divine power and protection in Hinduism. Devotees are explicitly cautioned against harming snakes in any manner on this day. Such an act is not only deemed sinful but is also believed to bring misfortune upon the perpetrator and their entire lineage. It is a day to coexist harmoniously with these creatures, acknowledging their significance in Hindu mythology.

Respecting the Earth

Nag Panchami ki shubhkamnayein. Stay blessed and protected. pic.twitter.com/gTt8WWpjTw

— Dr Poornima🚩🇮🇳 (@PoornimaNimo) August 21, 2023

Another guideline during Nag Panchami is to avoid excavating the earth. This cautionary practice is rooted in the belief that snakes reside in subterranean burrows. Disturbing their habitats through digging is thought to result in bringing ill fortune to one's family for generations to come. Thus, it is a day to show respect not only to the serpents but also to the earth that houses them.

Offerings in Temples

While some individuals may choose to offer milk directly to live snakes during Nag Panchami, it is advisable to refrain from this practice. Milk can be detrimental to the well-being of snakes. Instead, it is more appropriate to make milk offerings in temples, where rituals can be performed safely and in accordance with tradition.

Inauspicious Activities

Nag Panchami also calls for a temporary halt to certain activities. Engaging in actions such as sewing, cutting, and similar tasks is considered inauspicious on this day. Devotees believe that refraining from such actions during Nag Panchami helps maintain the sanctity of the occasion.

Regional Variations

#Thread Karnataka is one of the states that celebrates Nag Panchami with great zest. Snakes have always been an important part of Hindu culture. Nag Panchami celebration in Karnataka begins five days before the actual day of Nag Panchami. Clay idols are worshiped by girls pic.twitter.com/mxKWOEHAKp

— Ritu Shetty🇮🇳( NO DM) (@kindsoulritz) August 21, 2023

It is essential to acknowledge that customs and beliefs associated with Nag Panchami can vary among different regions and communities in India. While the aforementioned guidelines are commonly observed and recommended, there may be variations and additional practices specific to certain locales.

- PTC PUNJABI