Significance
Nag Panchami, on the fifth day of the bright fortnight of Shravana, is the worship of the divine Naga (serpent) deities. Serpents hold a supreme place in the Hindu cosmos: Ananta Shesha, the cosmic serpent, is the bed of Lord Vishnu; Vasuki encircles the throat of Lord Shiva; and the Naga deities are the protectors of earth, fertility, and underground waters. Worshipping Nagas on this day protects the family from snake bites, and the merit of offering milk to Nagas washes away sins related to ego, violence, and the killing of innocent creatures.
Preparation
Rituals & Vidhi
Morning Puja Setup
Draw a five-hooded cobra (Panchaphana) on the door threshold or puja altar using turmeric paste, or place a Naga idol. Bathe and wear clean clothes.
Milk Offering
Offer fresh, unboiled milk to the Naga image. Pour it gently at the base while chanting the mantra. Do not offer boiled milk as Nagas are said to prefer raw milk.
Mantra: Anantam Vasukim Shesham Padmanabham Cha Kambalau. Shankhapalang Dhrutarashtram Cha Takshakam Kaliyam Tatha.
Kumkum and Flowers
Apply kumkum and offer white flowers to the Naga deity. Light incense and a ghee lamp.
Kheer Prasad
Offer kheer (milk rice pudding) or modak and distribute as prasad. Avoid digging the earth, frying foods, or harming any snake or reptile on this day.
Family Guidance
Teach children to respect all living creatures, particularly snakes, as beings of divine creation. Tell the story of Vasuki helping in the churning of the cosmic ocean. Visit a nearby Naga temple if one exists in your region.