Nag Panchami 2026: Nag Panchami is one of the major festivals in Hinduism. It is celebrated on the *Panchami Tithi* (fifth day) of the *Shukla Paksha* (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of *Sawan* to worship and revere the Serpent Deity (*Nag Devta*). Various beliefs and traditions regarding Nag Panchami prevail across different states of the country; while special prayers and fasts are observed in some places, religious events and fairs are organized in temples in others.
Notably, the Nag Panchami celebrations at several prominent religious sites in India are renowned for their unique traditions. Centuries-old customs associated with this festival can still be witnessed in places like Ujjain, Nagpur, and Uttar Pradesh. On this day, devotees worship the Serpent Deity and pray for happiness, prosperity, and the well-being of their families. Nag Panchami is a festival deeply rooted not only in religious faith but also in Indian culture and folk traditions.
**Special Significance of Nag Panchami in Ujjain**
The Nag Panchami celebration in Ujjain is among the most renowned events in the country. Here, the doors of the Nagchandreshwar Temple—located in the upper section of the Mahakaleshwar Temple complex—are opened to the public only once a year, on the day of Nag Panchami. The temple houses a rare idol of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati seated upon a serpent's coil (*Nag Shayya*).
It is believed that *Nagraj Takshak* (the King of Serpents) performed penance for Lord Shiva and, upon receiving a boon, took up residence in the *Mahakal* region. Due to this religious belief, special worship and *darshan* (viewing of the deity) on Nag Panchami hold great significance here.
**Special Worship of the Serpent Deity in Nagpur**
In Nagpur, too, the festival of Nag Panchami is celebrated in a traditional manner. There are several serpent temples in the city's older neighborhoods, with the *Nagoba* Temple located in the *Mahal* area counted among the prominent religious sites. A large number of devotees visit these temples on Nag Panchami.
In Nagpur and the Vidarbha region, many families worship the Serpent Deity by creating an image or drawing of the deity on this day. There is also a tradition of preparing traditional delicacies and *Kadai* *Prasad* (a special offering cooked in a large wok) in households. In rural areas, a custom prevails of abstaining from certain agricultural activities on this day. Nag Panchami in Other Parts of Maharashtra
In Maharashtra, the festival of Nag Panchami is linked to both religious worship and folk culture. In many places, idols or images of the Serpent Deity (Nag Devta) are worshipped, while in some rural areas, there is a tradition of worshipping *Varul*—the mounds or burrows inhabited by snakes. Women observe a fast and pray for the happiness, prosperity, and safety of their families.
How is Nag Panchami Celebrated in UP?
In Uttar Pradesh, the festival of Nag Panchami is celebrated with deep reverence and traditional customs. On this day, after a morning bath, the Serpent Deity is worshipped within the home. In many places, it is customary to draw an image of the Serpent Deity on the house door or wall and offer turmeric, *roli* (vermilion), rice, and flowers. Devotees offer milk and sweets to the deity and pray for their family's well-being and prosperity.
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