Naga Panchami is observed on the fifth day (Panchami) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the month of Shravana — typically falling in late July or early August. It is one of the oldest nature-worship festivals in Hindu tradition, dedicated to the Naga Devatas (serpent deities) who are revered across Indian culture as guardians, symbols of fertility, and manifestations of primordial energy. On this day, serpents are worshipped at anthills, in temples, and in images drawn on the floor with turmeric and sandalwood paste.

Snakes in Hindu Theology

The serpent holds a unique position in Hindu cosmology. Shiva wears snakes as ornaments — Vasuki around his neck — symbolising his mastery over fear and poison. Vishnu rests on the cosmic serpent Adi Shesha (Ananta), the thousand-headed serpent who forms the couch of the universe. Subramanya (Karthikeya) is associated with snakes as both his vehicle and companions. The Nagas of the underworld (Patala) are considered protectors of treasure and of the deep earth, and their worship is believed to ward off snake-bite, protect children, and bring fertility to the soil — a deeply practical concern for agricultural communities.

Rituals and Observances

On Naga Panchami, women wake early and draw images of serpents on the doorstep or courtyard using rice flour, turmeric, or sandalwood paste. Milk, flowers, and turmeric are offered to live snakes (if safely accessible), to anthill mounds (which are believed to be the homes of serpents), or to silver or stone images of Nagas in temples. Eating fried foods is traditionally avoided as frying is associated with harming serpents symbolically. Fasting and prayers are offered, particularly by women seeking children and by families with a history of serpent-related misfortune. Naga temples — particularly at Nagula Chaviti sites — are heavily visited.

Naga Panchami in Andhra Tradition

In Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Naga Panchami carries a specific folk character. Women draw naga (serpent) patterns — often paired cobras or a coiled serpent — on the floor of the home with rice flour and worship them with turmeric and flowers. Swings (oonjals) are hung from trees, and women sing folk songs (janapadalu) that speak of serpents, rain, earth, and fertility. The festival falls during the monsoon, when snakes emerge from flooded burrows — making the ancient instinct to honour and appease them very practical. Anthill worship, known as Puttu puja, is widespread and seen as a direct form of Naga Devata worship.