Nag Panchami 2023 : Date, Timing, Rituals, and Significance.

Nag Panchami 2023: Nag Panchami stands as one of the most prominent Hindu festivals, celebrated with fervor in India. This day is dedicated to worshipping snakes and holds deep cultural importance. According to the Drik Panchang, Nag Panchami will be observed throughout India on the Panchami Tithi (5th day) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Sawan. This year, it falls on August 21, 2023.

Nag Panchami 2023: Date and Timing Start of Panchami Tithi –

August 21, 2023 – 12:21 AM End of Panchami Tithi – August 22, 2023 – 02:00 AM

Nag Panchami 2023: Significance

Nag Panchami holds immense significance among Hindus as a festival dedicated to snakes. These creatures, known for their potent venom, are revered as powerful beings and even as deities. This festival is particularly celebrated by the Naga tribe. In Hindu mythology, snakes are said to reside in Patal Loka, and Nagas occupy a special place in Hindu religious texts.

Worshipping snakes on Nag Panchami is believed to eliminate fear of serpents and alleviate Kaal Sarpa Dosha. Vasuki, the king of the Nagas coiled around Lord Shiva’s neck, and Goddess Mansa, Vasuki’s sister and considered Lord Shiva’s daughter, are both worshipped on this day. In Hindu tradition, twelve renowned Nagas are venerated.

The twelve Nagas are as follows:

1. Shesha Naag, 2. Vishdhar, 3. Vasuki, 4. Shankhapal, 5. Takshak, 6. Mahapadma, 7. Padma, 8. Karkotak
2. Kulik, 10. Anantha, 11. Shankhchur, 12. Ghatak

Nag Panchami 2023: Story

According to Hindu mythology, Janmajeya, son of Parikshit, organized a Yagya (ritual) seeking revenge against the snakes after his father was killed by the Takshak snake. To safeguard the snakes, the son of Rishi Jaratkaru and Aastik Muni halted the Yagya on Shravan Shukla Panchami. This act saved the Takshak snake and its clan, leading to the inception of Nag Panchami.

Nag Panchami 2023: Celebration

Nag Panchami holds profound religious importance for Hindus and is also celebrated by Hindu devotees in Nepal. The festival commemorates a time when the Kathmandu Valley, once a lake, was inhabited by perilous snakes. To ensure harmonious living, the Nagas were given a special place and worshipped. This historical event continues to be celebrated with immense joy and enthusiasm.

On this auspicious day, devotees have the opportunity to witness Nag Chandreshwar at the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain. This temple is open to devotees for only 24 hours once a year.

Many pilgrims also visit the Mansa Mata temple in Haridwar. It is believed that this visit helps those afflicted with Kaal Sarpa Dosha to overcome it.

Nag Panchami 2023: Rituals

1. Devotees rise early and purify themselves with a bath before commencing the puja rituals.
2. They create images of snakes using coal on walls or paper.
3. Offerings of flowers, kumkum, turmeric, and sweets are made.
4. Devotees worship snakes by offering milk and kheer (sweet rice pudding).
5. Some even offer milk to real snakes with the assistance of snake charmers.
6. An important ritual involves performing Abhishekam (ritual bath) to the Shivlingam and offering a pair of silver Nag Nagin (snake figurines).

Mantras

1. Om Namah Shivaye..!!
2. Om Trayambhakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushti Vardhanam, Urvarukmiv Bandhanan Mrityor Mukshiya Mamritaat..!!

Nag Panchami 2023: 5 Dos And Don’ts.

Dos.

• When conducting the worship of Nag Devata, devotees engage in traditional ceremonies and rituals to seek blessings from the deity. Alongside these rituals, one can also recite various Nag Panchami mantras to appease the serpent lord.
• On this day, individuals often choose to either fast or consume exclusively vegetarian meals as part of their religious observance. This practice aids in purifying their bodies and fostering a deeper spiritual connection with the snake god. Fasting and adhering to vegetarian food are gestures of respect and homage, underscoring the significance of this special occasion.
• A pivotal and revered ritual during Nag Panchami involves offering milk to snake idols or images. This act not only pays homage to Nag Devata but also invites blessings, good health, happiness, and success.
• A paramount practice on Nag Panchami is visiting temples and venerating Nag Devata. This ingrained tradition reflects gratitude and a heartfelt entreaty for divine safeguarding.
• Passing down the significance of Nag Panchami to succeeding generations is crucial. Educate them about the festival’s importance, its customs, and the value of conserving snakes.

Don’ts

• On Nag Panchami, it is advisable to refrain from plowing the earth, as this action could potentially harm or endanger snakes residing beneath the surface.
• During Nag Panchami, it is prudent to avoid felling trees. Trees often serve as habitats for snakes, and their removal can disrupt these ecosystems. It is imperative not to cause harm to or injure snakes on this day.
• Manifesting compassion towards all creatures, including snakes, aligns with the core principle of Nag Panchami.
• While offering milk is a tradition, it’s essential to use an appropriate amount and avoid wastage.
• Resist capturing wild snakes for display during the festival. Such actions can disrupt the natural balance and diminish snake populations, thereby impacting the overall biodiversity of ecosystems.

Nag Panchami 2023: Frequently Asked Questions