Naag Panchami is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of snakes, also known as "Nagas," which are revered in Hindu mythology. The festival is celebrated on the fifth day (Panchami) of the bright half of the lunar month of Shravan, typically falling in July or August. This oleograpah prodused around circa in 1930-35 from Ravi Varma Press Karla Lonavala.
Significance and Celebrations:
Honoring Serpents:
The festival honors serpent deities and symbolizes respect for nature and its creatures, particularly snakes, which are believed to offer protection and bring prosperity.
Mythological Roots:
It has deep roots in Hindu mythology, including stories like Lord Krishna's victory over the venomous serpent Kaliya Nag.
Rituals and Offerings:
Devotees perform rituals and offer milk, sweets, flowers, and other items to snake idols or images in temples or homes.
Cultural Importance:
Nag Panchami emphasizes the ecological importance of snakes in maintaining ecosystem balance and promotes their protection and conservation.
Regional Variations:
While celebrated across India, different regions may have specific traditions and rituals, such as making serpent effigies in Punjab (Gugu-Navami).
