Do you know the Nagas or snakes never drink milk and eat any other foods that humans provide? Then why do Indians offer milk and other food items to the snakes on the festival of Naga Panchami? Is the festival of Naga Panchami just a blind celebration or is there any logical or scientific reason behind these ancient practices? Let’s get answers to all these questions in this blog
India is a land of rich history and diverse cultures and holds within its folds a captivating story of a group that has intrigued scholars and seekers for centuries — the Nagas. Let’s uncover the ancient secrets and significance of these enigmatic beings.
The Nagas, often depicted as half-human and half-serpent, are mythical beings mentioned in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain texts. They are believed to have existed for thousands of years, revered as protectors of knowledge, spirituality, and hidden treasures. The Nagas hold immense importance in Indian mythology. They are associated with water, fertility, and creation. The serpent’s ability to shed its skin symbolizes renewal and transformation, much like the cycles of life.
What is Naga Panchami & Scientific reason for the festival
Naga Panchami is a Hindu festival dedicated to worshiping snakes or Nagas. While the festival carries religious and cultural significance, there is also a scientific reasoning behind it. One of the reasons Naga Panchami is celebrated is because Shravana is the month of peak monsoon. During this time, farmers cultivate crops in fields. Snakes often come out of their holes to get food, which they easily find — frogs, rats, etc. So snakes can harm humans.
In order to prevent this, devotees offer sweets, milk, and other eatables nearby snake holes. Ants and other insects attract these eatables and are eaten by snakes. So the snake will get its food and will not come out of its hole. The increased snake activity during this time has led to the belief that offering prayers to snakes on Naga Panchami can help mitigate potential conflicts between humans and snakes.
Stories on Naga Panchami
There are several stories related to this festival. According to one belief, while Lord Krishna was playing near the Yamuna River, the ball fell in. As he stepped into the waters, Krishna was attacked by Kalinga Naga. Lord Krishna defeated Kalinga Naga, and the snake and his wives begged for his life after realizing Krishna was no ordinary child. Krishna spared his life after a promise from him that he would no longer harass the residents of Gokul. Naga Panchami is observed to celebrate Krishna’s victory over Kalinga Naga.
According to another story, Janmajeya, the son of Parikshit, had arranged a Naga Yagna to take revenge on snakes, as his father Parikshit was killed by Takshak, the son of Rishi Jaratkaru. Astik Muni stopped this yagna. The day he stopped the yagna was Shravana Shukla Panchami.
The ancient story of Nag Panchami, your wishes can come true.
One day, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were sitting on Mount Kailash. Parvati asked,
“Lord, today is the holy day of Nag Panchami. Why do people worship snakes? Why is this day celebrated, and what should people do to please the Nagas? Please tell me an ancient story related to this festival.”
Lord Shiva replied, Dear Parvati, snakes have existed since ancient times. They are descendants of the gods and possess unique powers. In Nag Lok (the world of snakes), powerful snake kings like Takshak and Kaliya reside. Their venom is not just destructive but also contains the power of creation and destruction. They protect the world with their energy and wisdom.”
He continued, Nag Panchami is celebrated to honor these divine beings. On this day, women offer milk to snakes and worship them for the well-being of their families. This festival symbolizes balance and harmony in life. The snakes are protectors of humans, and those who worship them receive my blessings.”
Parvati asked,
“But aren’t humans afraid of snakes?”
Shiva answered,
“Yes, but snakes silently protect humans. Their worship frees people from many problems and brings peace.”
Then Shiva narrated an old story:
The Story of Gautami and Her Daughter Sudakshina
A long time ago, in a beautiful city lived a poor widow named Gautami and her only daughter Sudakshina. Gautami raised her daughter with great love and devotion. Every day she offered milk to the snakes outside her house. Her devotion pleased the Nagas.
One day, the Nagas appeared and said,
“Dear mother, you serve us milk with so much love. Ask for any wish, and we shall fulfill it.”
Gautami replied,
“I don’t want anything for myself, but please protect my daughter Sudakshina after my death. Consider her your sister and care for her.”
The Nagas promised:
We will never forget your devotion. We will protect your daughter as our sister.
After some time, Sudakshina got married into a wealthy family. Soon after her marriage, Gautami passed away. Sudakshina was left alone with the memories of her mother.
She was the youngest daughter-in-law among four sisters-in-law. The other three started preparing to visit their parents’ homes for Nag Panchami. But Sudakshina had no one left from her family. Saddened and mocked by the elder sisters-in-law, she sat crying and prayed to Lord Shiva.
That night, the Naga king appeared in human form and came to her door. Dressed in divine clothes and jewels, he said,
Sister, I have come to take you to your maternal home.
Sudakshina was surprised:
“Who are you? I don’t have a brother!”
The Naga king smiled and reminded her of her mother’s devotion and the promise they made to protect her. She finally remembered everything and accepted him as her brother.
The Naga king took her to Nag Lok, a beautiful magical realm filled with gold palaces, fragrant air, and peace. The Nag queen welcomed her warmly and gave her a beautiful room.
One day, the Nag queen requested Sudakshina to feed milk to the baby Nagas. Unfortunately, she accidentally gave them hot milk, and their mouths got burned. The baby Nagas got angry and wanted revenge. But the Nag queen stopped them and forgave Sudakshina, explaining it was a mistake.
Sudakshina returned home, but she deeply missed Nag Lok.
Next year, on Nag Panchami, the grown-up baby Nagas came to visit her. Initially, they wanted revenge, but Sudakshina welcomed them with love. She served cold milk, sweet food, made rangoli, and decorated the home. Her genuine love and care melted their anger.
They forgave her and took her back to Nag Lok, gave her precious gifts, and sent her back with love.
The Naga king then gave her a boon:
“From now on, any woman who offers cold milk to snakes on Nag Panchami will be protected by Nagas. Her family will never be harmed by snakes.”
Sudakshina returned home full of joy and celebrated Nag Panchami every year with great devotion.
The concept of Nagas goes beyond folklore. Ancient texts hint at a sophisticated civilization that existed beneath the earth’s surface. Archaeological excavations continue to uncover artifacts that shed light on this mysterious civilization.
Today, Nagas continue to be a part of India’s cultural fabric. Modern Naga communities celebrate their heritage through vibrant festivals that showcase their deep-rooted traditions. Our ancestors passed down stories of Nagas, emphasizing their values of protection, transformation, and unity. We keep these traditions alive to honor our cultural heritage.
Moral of the Story:
Love, devotion, and sincere service can win hearts—even of the divine. Lord Shiva concluded by saying this is why Nag Panchami is celebrated.
Conclusion
Throughout history, the Nagas have been worshiped in various regions of India through rituals, festivals, and ceremonies. Their significance is deeply intertwined with both nature and spiritual beliefs. Naga worship is not limited to any specific religion — it’s a convergence of various faiths and practices. People seek blessings and protection from Nagas, especially during droughts and calamities. Many ancient temples across India feature intricate Naga idols, often serving as guardians of the temple grounds.
Their presence symbolizes protection and purity, as well as their connection to the cosmic forces. Nagas are revered not just for their power but for their wisdom and connection to the divine. They guide us through the paths of enlightenment and help us navigate the challenges of life. The stories of Nagas are not limited to mythology alone. They are also associated with historical figures and events. Some believe that certain ancient texts, scrolls, and treasures are guarded by Nagas in hidden underground chambers.
