Udupi: Nagara Panchami, one of the ancient and sacred festivals of the coastal region, was celebrated with great fervour, pomp and gaiety on Wednesday August 19 in the Temple district.
It is celebrated on Panchami in Shravan month (fifth day after the new moon of Shravana month) as per Hindu calendar. On the day, people go to temples and snake pits to worship Naga Devata (Serpent God). It is believed to be one of the most auspicious days of the entire year.
The devotional atmosphere prevailed all over the district especially in the villages where several “Nagabanas” are found. According to the belief, devotees in this part of the region visited the “Moolasthanas” of Naga to offer “Thanu” It is believed that Naga is fond of “Kedage” and offering “Kedage” makes the God pleased with the prayers offered by the devotees. Devotees also thronged to “Anantheshwara” and “Madanantheshawara” temples to offer prayers. As Lord Shiva is closely associated with Naga, Nagarapanchami is observed at the Nagabanas in Shiva temples.
Sri Krishna Math celebrated Nagarapanchami by offering prayers to Lord Krishna. Devotes especially women and girls visited temples in large numbers. Sri Vidyavallbateertha Swamiji of Paryaya Kaniyoor Math offered special prayers of Nagara panchami celebration by pouring milk on the stone idols of Snake gods. Sweet dishes were prepared for the festival in every household.