In India, Nepal, and other countries where similar religious communities are present, Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists celebrate Nag Panchami, a traditional festival devoted to worshiping nagas, or snakes. This day, which falls on the fifth day of the bright half of the lunar month of Shravana in the Hindu calendar, commemorates these sacred animals that are thought to bestow wealth and protection. The celebration also emphasizes the relationship to Lord Shiva, who is frequently seen with snakes around his neck to represent his authority over these revered creatures. Here is everything you need to know about this important occasion, from the date to the history.
Date & Time of Nag Panchami in 2024
This year, on Friday, August 9, the important Hindu holiday of Nag Panchami will be held. Drik Panchang states that the following are the auspicious timings:
Nag Panchami Puja Muhurat on August 9 from 06:15 AM to 08:44 AM
Two hours and twenty-nine minutes.
August 8, 2024, at 12:36 AM, is Panchami Tithi.
Panchami Tithi Ends on August 9, 2024, at 03:14 AM
Happy Nag Panchmi 🐍#shiv #NagPanchami #Nagpanchami2022 #OmNamahShivaya
Sabhi Naglok Wasiyo Ko Nag Panchmi hi hardik shubhkamnaye ✨
Iss nagpanchami par yahi dua mangunga ki – Hey Mahakal jo mujhay value dete hy aap unki value achi banaye rakhna – guru ji @VidyutJammwal pic.twitter.com/JJEHS8YuOh— Sheetal Yadav (@Sheetal_Yadav9) August 9, 2024
History of Panchami in 2024
Hindu mythology states that when Krishna was a little child, he was playing by the Yamuna river when his ball became caught in a tree’s branches. Fearsome snake Kaliya attacked Krishna after he fell into the river while attempting to retrieve it. Following a bloody struggle, Kaliya realized Krishna wasn’t your typical child and pleaded for forgiveness. Krishna agreed to save the snake as long as it stopped bothering others. Nag Panchami is observed to honor Krishna’s conquest and his deed of rescuing humanity from the deadly serpent Kaliya.
Panchami’s Significance in 2024
All parts of nature, including plants, animals, and even inanimate objects, are adored in Hinduism as representations of the divine. The spiritual significance of many prayers and holidays has been added by ancient sages, strengthening the connection between people and the natural environment. Nag Panchami is a unique occasion that falls on the fifth day following the new moon in Shravan or, in certain areas, the full moon in Ashadh. Known by another name, Manasa Devi Ashtanga Puja, it entails worshiping the eight nagas (serpents) in addition to the snake goddess, Manasa Devi.
During the Gugu-Navami celebration in Punjab, followers create a big flour effigy of a serpent and present it to the deity. This celebration emphasizes the significance of serpents in preserving the natural order and their place in Hindu mythology. Devotees seek peace with nature and express thanks for these serpents’ ecological importance by honoring them.