Nag Panchami Celebrated with Devotion at Shri Nag Mandir in Nashik

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The ancient Shri Nag Mandir in Nashik witnessed a wave of devotion and festivity on the occasion of Nag Panchami, as hundreds of devotees gathered to offer their respects to Nag Devata, the serpent deity revered in Hindu tradition.

From the early hours of the morning, the temple premises at Nag Chowk in Panchavati began filling with devotees – especially women dressed in traditional saris – carrying decorated pooja thalis filled with flowers, haldi-kumkum, milk, sweets, and sacred leaves.

Nag Panchami at Panchavati Nashik Shravan 2025

Many brought their offerings from home, while local vendors set up stalls, selling vibrant garlands, incense sticks, and readymade pooja items.

The temple atmosphere was filled with chants, the fragrance of fresh marigolds, and the laughter of children playing near the mandap.

Volunteers and temple staff worked harmoniously to manage the crowd and guide the devotees toward the idol of the Nag deity, which was beautifully adorned for the occasion.

Prasad Served to Hundreds of Devotees

As part of the celebrations, Shri Nag Mandir had organized a community meal (prasad bhojan).

Rows of devotees sat in traditional lines as they were served poori, batata bhaji, masale bhat, and a generous helping of sweet shira – which was also distributed separately as prasad.

The meal, simple yet delicious, reflected the essence of Bhakti (devotion) and Seva (service).

The First Major Festival of Shravan

Nag Panchami is considered the first major festival of the holy month of Shravan, a period deeply revered in Hindu tradition and especially observed across Maharashtra.

Shravan is associated with devotion, fasting, and ritual worship, particularly of Lord Shiva – and Nag Panchami, falling early in the month, sets the spiritual tone for the weeks ahead.

The offering of milk, sweets, coconuts, and symbolic items to serpent deities during this festival is believed to ensure protection, prosperity, and peace in the household.

It also reflects gratitude toward nature and the unseen protectors in the cosmic order – a recurring theme throughout Shravan observances.

In Maharashtra, the entire month is marked by Monday fasts (Shravan Somwars), temple visits, and community celebrations – and Nag Panchami signals the beginning of this spiritually charged season in Nashik and beyond.

A Scene of Devotion and Harmony

With smiling families, happy children, beautifully dressed women, and selfless volunteers serving prasad, the scene at Shri Nag Mandir captured the vibrant and harmonious spirit of Nashik’s cultural fabric.

The celebrations reflected not only religious devotion but also a strong sense of community participation and tradition.

FAQ

What is Nag Panchami and why is it celebrated?

Nag Panchami is a Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of serpent deities (Nag Devata). It is celebrated to seek protection, prosperity, and blessings from the Nagas, and to honor their role in nature and mythology.

When is it celebrated in Maharashtra?

It is observed on the fifth day (Panchami) of the bright half of the Shravan month, which usually falls in July or August. In 2025, it was celebrated on July 29 in Maharashtra.

What are the rituals performed?

Devotees offer milk, flowers, sweets, turmeric, and symbolic food items to snake idols or images. In Maharashtra, women often draw snake motifs at home and visit Nag temples for special prayers and offerings.

Is it the first festival of Shravan month?

Yes, Nag Panchami is considered the first major festival of Shravan. It marks the beginning of several religious observances during the holy month across India.