KATHMANDU, Aug 9: The Nagpanchami festival is being celebrated today with worship of the Nag or serpent god.
Many people are following the Hindu tradition by placing pictures of a Nag on the main door of their homes.
Nagpanchami festival being observed today
The festival is observed annually on the fifth day of Shrawan Shukla according to the lunar calendar.
It is believed that displaying a serpent image at home will protect against harm from snakes, scorpions, and incidents such as fires and lightning.
The practice of Nag worship is thought to have originated in the Vedic period, with Nag considered the king of snakes in Vedic traditions.
Special pujas are being performed at various locations, including Nagpokhari and Taudaha in Kathmandu, Siddhapokhari in Bhaktapur, and several other ponds and shrines across the country.
As part of the worship, offerings include cow milk, Akshata (rice mixed with turmeric), Dubo grass, rice pudding, and Roti, all presented with due respect.
