Nag Panchami is one of the most prominent festivals on the Hindu calendar. During this time, Hindus across the world worship nagas or king cobras. It is celebrated on the fifth day of the Hindu month of Shravan, which roughly coincides with the July / August period. The months of July and August usually see a lot of rain, and invariably snake holes get flooded with water forcing the serpents to emerge from their underground dwellings and seek shelter elsewhere. This leads to a large number of encounters with the slithery reptiles, and is generally considered a dangerous time.
In Hinduism the king cobra is one of the most feared and revered animals. This fierce serpent has been an integral part of Hindu mythology. Eternity is symbolised as a snake engulfing its own tail. There is Shesh Nag, the serpent with a thousand heads, on which the deity, Lord Vishnu, reclines. There is the Kalia serpent that lived in the mighty Yamuna River before it was vanquished by Lord Krishna. Then there are the eight great nagas mentioned in the Puranas (a Hindu text). According to the ancient text, the eight snakes were the grandchildren of Brahma.
On the day of Nag Panchami, married women and girls in South India rise early in the morning to bathe and prepare for a visit to the nearest anthill. The anthill here has actually been abandoned by the tiny insects and is inhabited by king cobras. They then pray to the snake god (an incarnation of Lord Subramanya), for the wellbeing of their families and give offerings of flowers and milk. A portion of milk is taken back home for their families.
Nag Panchami is arguably one of the most intriguing Indian festivals. Tourists who want to experience the occasion can do so in a South Indian city such as Bangalore. Travellers should book their accommodation well in advance as the celebrations draw a big crowd. Tourists who want to stay at 5 star Bangalore hotels can try Alila Bangalore Hotel. It is one of the best Bangalore luxury hotels around, and guests can enjoy superior service and a range of contemporary comforts that help ensure a truly memorable holiday experience.
