Nag Chaturthi 2026 - The Sacred Festival of Serpent Deities

A Special Festival of the Shravan Month: Symbol of Venom Neutralization and Prosperity

In Hinduism, the month of Shravan is revered as the month of devotion to Lord Shiva, but the Nag Chaturthi fast observed on the Chaturthi tithi of this month holds immense significance. This festival is dedicated to the worship of serpent deities, who are revered as symbols of nature's balance, venom neutralization, and family protection. Nag Chaturthi is celebrated on the Chaturthi of the Shukla Paksha in Shravan. In this article, we will explore the importance, legend, worship rituals, and benefits of Nag Chaturthi in detail.

Importance of Nag Chaturthi: Message of Nature and Karma

Nag Chaturthi provides an opportunity to honor serpents as deities. According to Hindu beliefs, serpents are earth deities who bring rain, fertility, and prosperity. Worshiping serpents on this day alleviates snake fears, venom curses, and family misfortunes.

According to the Mahabharata legend, King Janamejaya's father, Parikshit, was bitten by Takshaka serpent. Enraged, Janamejaya performed the Sarpa Satra, where all serpents were being sacrificed. Sage Astika intervened and halted the ritual. Inspired by this event, the tradition of protecting and worshiping serpents on Nag Chaturthi has continued. This festival also conveys a message of environmental conservation—respect serpents instead of harming them, as they are vital to the ecosystem.

The Mythological Legend of Nag Chaturthi: Takshaka and Astika's Episode

The legend of Nag Chaturthi in the Puranas is highly engaging. Once, King Parikshit was hunting in the forest. Exhausted, he rested under a tree where Sage Shamika was in deep meditation. To disturb him, Parikshit placed a dead serpent around the sage's neck. Shamika's son, Shringin, saw this and, in anger, cursed that Takshaka serpent would bite Parikshit on the seventh day.

As per the curse, Parikshit died. His son Janamejaya sought revenge by inviting all serpents to a yajna. Thousands of serpents fell into the fire. Takshaka was about to fall when Sage Astika pleaded with Janamejaya to stop the ritual. This story teaches that anger and violence end with forgiveness. Nag Chaturthi symbolizes this forgiveness and worship.

Worship Ritual: Simple and Effective Ceremony

The worship ritual for Nag Chaturthi is straightforward and can be performed easily at home. On this day, bathe in the morning, wear clean clothes, and maintain purity. Sprinkle Ganga water at the worship site and ensure cleanliness. Key items include milk, curd, ghee, honey, sandalwood, flowers, bilva leaves, dhatura, sacred thread, and an idol or image of the serpent.

Step-by-Step Worship Procedure:

1. Kalash Establishment: Fill a copper or earthen kalash with water, add betel nut, betel leaf, durva grass, and flowers. Draw a swastika on the kalash.
2. Serpent Worship: Place the serpent deity's idol or image on a seat. Bathe it with milk and offer panchamrit.
3. Mantra Chanting: Chant "Om Nagaya Namah" or the "Nag Devta Puja Mantra" 108 times. If possible, perform a havan with a priest.
4. Aarti and Prasad: Conclude the worship with aarti. Distribute prasad in the form of milk-based kheer and fruits. Those observing the fast should remain on waterless or fruit-based fasting.
5. Special Tip: Avoid harming serpents on this day and visit pilgrimage sites like Tryambakeshwar or Nageshwar Temple for darshan.

In states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Gujarat, this festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm, often combined with Nag Panchami, featuring various dances and folk songs.

Benefits of Nag Chaturthi: Spiritual and Scientific Perspective

Worship on Nag Chaturthi not only yields spiritual benefits but is also beneficial from a scientific viewpoint. In Jyotish Shastra, serpent worship is essential for remedying Rahu-Ketu doshas. It pacifies serpent curses in the horoscope and aids in progeny, wealth, and disease relief.

Scientifically, serpent venom is used in medicine (e.g., anti-snake venom), and this festival raises awareness for serpent conservation. It teaches us that every creature in nature is important.

Conclusion: Peace in Life Through Serpent Worship

Nag Chaturthi is a precious gem of the Shravan month, inspiring us to embrace compassion over violence. On this sacred festival, perform the worship to seek the grace of serpent deities and pledge to protect the environment. Remember, even a small creature like a serpent plays a crucial role in the universe's balance. Heartfelt wishes for Nag Chaturthi!

This article is based on Hindu scriptures and traditions. Consult a learned priest before performing the worship.