Annual Fasts — Hindu Sacred Fast
Nag Panchami Vrat
Nag Panchami is one of the most ancient Hindu festivals, observed on Shravan Shukla Panchami — the fifth day of the bright fortnight of Shravan. On this day, serpents (nagas) are worshipped as divine beings who hold cosmic power, protect the earth, and control rainfall. The festival has deep roots in the agricultural traditions of India, where snakes were revered as guardians of fields and granaries. Devotees offer milk to live serpents, visit snake temples, and fast in honor of the naga devatas. The Puranas speak of nagas as semi-divine beings ruling the underworld kingdom of Patala, with Shesha Nag supporting Lord Vishnu and Vasuki being the serpent used to churn the cosmic ocean.
Last updated: 23 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Benefits
Worshipping serpents on Nag Panchami is believed to grant protection from snakebites throughout the year for the entire family. The vrat removes the evil effects of Kaal Sarp Dosha in the birth horoscope, which is caused by Rahu and Ketu surrounding all planets. It brings relief from skin diseases and fear of reptiles. Devotees who fast and offer milk to nagas are said to receive the blessings of Shesha Nag, who grants longevity and protection. Farmers observe the vrat for good rains and protection of crops. The vrat also brings peace to ancestors who may have been harmed by snakes in a past life.
Procedure
On Nag Panchami, wake early, bathe, and draw images of serpents on the wall or floor using cow dung or turmeric paste. Visit a snake temple or anthill (the natural home of snakes) and offer fresh milk, flowers, and sweets. If a live snake is present, pour milk gently near it. At home, the puja involves placing an image of the naga on a wooden plank, offering panchamrit, flowers, kumkum, and sandalwood paste, and reciting the Nag Panchami Katha. Light incense and lamps. Offer durva grass and seasonal fruits. Chant the Nag Gayatri mantra or Shesha Stotra. Do not dig the earth, use needles, or cook on fire on this day, as these acts are believed to disturb the serpent world.
When to Observe
Nag Panchami is observed annually on Shravan Shukla Panchami — the fifth day of the bright fortnight of the month of Shravan (July–August). This day is universally observed across India, with particularly grand celebrations in Maharashtra (Batmi, Shirala), Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Bengal. In some regions the festival is observed on Krishna Paksha Panchami in Shravan instead.
Fasting Rules
Devotees observe a day-long fast on Nag Panchami, eating only once in the day or observing a complete fast until the puja is finished. Fried food is to be avoided on this day. Many households observe a tradition of not using needles, not ploughing or digging, and not cooking with fire for the midday meal. Some communities observe a total fast from cooked food, eating only raw fruits and milk. Women fast especially for the protection of their brothers and children from snakebites.
How to Break the Fast
The fast is broken after the completion of the naga puja, typically in the late morning or afternoon. First eat the prasad that was offered to the nagas — milk sweets, coconut, and seasonal fruits. Then consume a simple sattvic meal. Traditionally, fried foods are not eaten even after breaking the fast on this day. Milk, which is considered the sacred offering of Nag Panchami, is consumed as a special prasad. Distribute milk and sweets to neighbours and family as a symbol of the naga's blessings.
FAQ
Q.What is Nag Panchami Vrat?
Nag Panchami is one of the most ancient Hindu festivals, observed on Shravan Shukla Panchami — the fifth day of the bright fortnight of Shravan. On this day, serpents (nagas) are worshipped as divine beings who hold cosmic power, protect the earth, a...
Q.What are the fasting rules for Nag Panchami Vrat?
Devotees observe a day-long fast on Nag Panchami, eating only once in the day or observing a complete fast until the puja is finished. Fried food is to be avoided on this day. Many households observe a tradition of not using needles, not ploughing or digging, and not cooking with fire for the midday meal. Some communities observe a total fast from cooked food, eating only raw fruits and milk. Women fast especially for the protection of their brothers and children from snakebites.
Q.When should Nag Panchami Vrat be observed?
Nag Panchami is observed annually on Shravan Shukla Panchami — the fifth day of the bright fortnight of the month of Shravan (July–August). This day is universally observed across India, with particularly grand celebrations in Maharashtra (Batmi, Shirala), Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Bengal. In some regions the festival is observed on Krishna Paksha Panchami in Shravan instead.
Q.What are the benefits of Nag Panchami Vrat?
Worshipping serpents on Nag Panchami is believed to grant protection from snakebites throughout the year for the entire family. The vrat removes the evil effects of Kaal Sarp Dosha in the birth horoscope, which is caused by Rahu and Ketu surrounding all planets. It brings relief from skin diseases and fear of reptiles. Devotees who fast and offer milk to nagas are said to receive the blessings of Shesha Nag, who grants longevity and protection. Farmers observe the vrat for good rains and protection of crops. The vrat also brings peace to ancestors who may have been harmed by snakes in a past life.