Nag Panchami celebrations in Goa: Steeped in tradition

NAG PANCHAMI IN GOA

People across Goa celebrated the festival of Nag Panchami with traditional fervour on Monday, August 21, 2023.

MEANING OF NAG PANCHAMI

The festival of Nag Panchami derives its name from the word Nag, which means serpent or cobra, and Panchami which refers to the fifth day of the lunar month of Shravana of the Hindu calendar.

REVERING THE SNAKE GOD

On this day, people bring home idols of nag and worship them. As part of the festive rituals, they pour milk on the idol and offer prayers.

SYMBOLIC GESTURE

Devotees also light incense sticks and offer milk and prayers in locations such as anthills, where snakes are believed to reside. This is a symbolic gesture seeking blessings and protection from the snake god.

FESTIVE DELICACY

People prepare patoleos at home, and these are offered to the snake god and shared with neighbours.

SEASON'S SPECIAL

Patoleos are served at most festivals, which are celebrated in Goa at this time of the year, towards the end of the monsoons.

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