Nag Panchami is a big day in India and is celebrated by people to pay respect to snakes, which they consider holy. This festival comes in July or August, basically the month of monsoons. During this time, people perform puja and show respect by taking blessings from snake gods. If you are thinking of learning how to do puja on Nag Panchami, then here is a simple step-by-step guide for you.
Why Nag Panchami Is Celebrated?
But before we move on to the steps, let us tell you a little about why we celebrate Nag Panchami. Snakes hold an important place in Hindu mythology and culture. They are associated with Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. So through this festival, not only do we remember and respect their existence; we also ward off the negative energies of snakes and draw in all the good luck.
What You Need for Puja:
Listed here are things that you need for performing the puja. This list will help you in getting ready.
- Picture or idol of Snake God: You can have a picture or a small idol of Snake God.
- Milk: Milk is considered to be snakes’ favourite offering or milk.
- Fresh flowers: You especially need Jasmine and Marigold flowers.
- Turmeric and Kumkum: You will need these for making tilak.
- Incense Sticks: To create an atmosphere of sanctity.
- Fruits and Sweets: For the offering purpose to the deity.
- A Clean Cloth: To be kept at the place where you are going to do the puja.
- Diya (Lamp): A small oil lamp.
Steps to Perform on Nag Panchami Puja
Now that you have everything, follow these easy steps to perform the puja on nag panchami.
- Clean the Area: First of all, clean the place where you are going to do puja. It’s always best to do it early in the morning. Set out a cloth and clean the floor.
- Place the Idol or Picture: Keep the picture or idol of the snake god on the cloth. It should be kept at a place where it won’t get disturbed.
- Offer Milk: Pour a little milk into a bowl. Gently offer the milk in front of the idol or picture. This symbolises feeding the snake gods.
- Apply Turmeric and Kumkum: Take a pinch of turmeric and kumkum and apply it to the idol or picture. You can also put a tilak on your forehead.
- Light the Diya: Light the diya and place it beside deities or pictures. The light from the lamp stands for light, purity, and knowledge.
- Offer Flowers: Take the flowers and gently place them beside the idol or picture. It is a sign of reverence and devotion.
- Burn Incense Sticks: Light up the incense sticks and wave them in front of the idol or picture. This will purify the air and soothe the atmosphere spiritually.
- Chant Mantras: While doing the puja, you can chant mantras or prayers in dedication to the snake gods. One famous mantra chanted is:
“Om Nagadevaya Namah” This literally means “I bow to the snake god.”
- Offer Fruits and Sweets: Put fruits and sweets in front of the idol or picture as an offering. This is a way to show thankfulness and seek blessings.
- Pray and Meditate: You can close your eyes for a few moments and pray. You may pray for protection, good health, and prosperity. A few minutes of meditation helps you to feel near the divine.
- Other Customs: Some districts also visit some temples or places where there is snake worship; they offer milk and other things directly to the live snakes. If you do so, be respectful and maintain the local customs.
Dos and Don’ts for Nag Panchami
Following are some simple tips to remember:
- Do: Clean dresses, cool head.
- Do: Show respect toward family or community traditions.
- Don’t: All of a sudden, disturb or cause any harm to the snakes. It is all about respect and reverence toward them on this particular day.
- Don’t: Sprinkle harsh chemicals or pesticides in the garden. They may kill snakes and other creatures.
Are you in search of pandit for Puja in Ujjain? We suggest you visit the website of Astro Vijay.
If you conduct this puja with lots of sincerity and devotion, then you will be able to get their blessings and protection from the snake gods. To get the most benefit out of this auspicious occasion, take the guidance of Astrovijay, the best astrologer in Ujjain.
Follow these simple steps, and you will have a meaningful Nag Panchami.