Naag Panchami: Worshipping Serpents to Herald Prosperity and Protection

In the heart of Kathmandu, throngs of devotees flocked to Naag Pokhari, a sacred pond, to partake in the age-old festivities of Naag Panchami, a Hindu ceremony dedicated to the worship of serpent deities. Celebrated on the fifth day of Shrawan's bright half-moon, it marks the advent of the festive season in Nepal.

At Naag Pokhari, worshipers performed rituals, offering vermilion powder, flowers, and milk to the serpent deity. According to traditional Hindu beliefs, the serpent deity Shesh Naag plays a crucial role in balancing the Earth. Devotees, while adhering to distinct rituals, paid homage to all serpent deities despite material constraints, underscoring the spiritual significance of Naag Pooja.

Naag Panchami also symbolizes the bond between humans and nature, as farmers traditionally refrain from tilling their fields, instead crafting idols from mud. The festival, tied to myths of revenge and redemption, suggests homes with the Naag deity are blessed with prosperity. Thus, the serpentine deity is honored as a guardian of water, rain, and equilibrium.

(With inputs from agencies.)