Shukla Panchami (waxing phase of the Moon) of Shravan month is celebrated as Nag Panchami. According to Drik Panchang, Nag Panchami falls on Panchami Tithi (fifth day) and is considered to be most important for the worship of the Naga gods and Lord Shiva as he is the God of Snakes. The day is observed two days after Hariyali Teej. Therefore, forgetting the day of Nag Panchami, one should not worship the living snake but the idol of Nagadevata.
According to astrologers, worshipping Nagdevta with Lord Shiva on the day of Nag Panchami results in a special fruit. Apart from this, it is considered auspicious to offer milk to the idol by not feeding milk to the living snake. The reason behind this is that snakes are carnivorous.
What is the Story?
One mythology, the storysays Takshak, the king of snakes, stalked King Janamejaya's father Parikshit and killed him. To avenge his death, King Janamejaya conducted a yajna as he wanted to eliminate the entire Naga caste. The day the yagna was stopped due to the intervention of the Brahmin Astika Rishi is celebrated as Nag Panchami. Another mythology story says, Lord Krishna's maternal uncle Kansa on the day of Nag Panchami sent Kaliya Nag and Lord Krishna killed Kaliya Nag to save the lives of the people of Gokul.
Timings:
- Nag Panchami Date: Saturday, 25 July 2020
- Puja Muhurat: 05:39 AM to 08:22 AM
- Duration: 2 Hours 44 minutes
- Panchami Tithibegins at 02:34 PM on Jul 24, 2020
- Panchami Tithiends at-12:02 PM on Jul 25, 2020 (Source: drikpanchang.com)
How to worship Lord of Snakes:
Worship Lord Mahadev and Parvati on the day of Nag Panchami with rituals. After this do Rudra Abhishek of Mahadev. After this, make a clay statue of Nag-Nagin or if you have idol good enough and offer milk, Akshat, flowers, sandalwood and sweet. After offering pooja material, wish Mahadev to overcome your obstacles.
May Lord Shiva bless us all on the auspicious occasion of Nag Panchami. Shubh Nag Panchami!
