Hindu Festivals - Nag Panchami

NAG PANCHAMI:
        Nag Panchami is observed on the 5^th day of the bright half of Shravan (July-August). On this day nag, cobras and snakes are worshipped with milk, sweets, flowers, lamps and even sacrifice. The image of Nag deities made of silver; stone, wood are first bathed with water and milk, and then worshipped with the reciting of the following mantras:

        Nagah preeta bhavantih shantimapnoti vai vibhoh,
        Sashanti lok ma sadhya modate shashttih samah.

        Snakes and cobras are held in awe and reverence in India. They are worshipped and offered prayers on the Nag Panchami day. Fast is observed and Brahmins are fed on this day. The piety observed on this day is considered a sure protection against the fear of snake-bite. At many places real cobras and snakes worshipped and fairs held. On this day digging the earth is prohibited, because the serpents live under the earth or in nether world and digging may hurt or annoy them. The various purans like Agni Puran, Skanda Puran, Narad Puran, etc. They roam about the land wearing lustrous jewels and ornaments. The thousand-hooded Shesh Nag or Anant is the most earth like a chaplet on his crown. When he nods or yawns, the earth with its oceans and mountains, begin to tremble.

        Nag Panchami is also observed as Bhratri Panchami, and women having brother worship snakes, their holes and keep fast to propitiate Nags so that their beloved does not fall victim to snake bite. The serpent has been given an in India semi-bite to their beloved brothers. The snake-deities are also regarded as the custodians of the treasures of land and sea.