Snakes have always been worshipped and revered in Hindu mythology. Lord Shiva has the snake Vasuki around his neck. Lord Vishnu lies on the snake Adisesha, the king of snakes. The snake Vasuki was used as a rope during the Samudra Manthana (churning of the ocean of milk).
Nag Panchami is a festival observed by Hindus, Jains and Buddhists on the first day of the Lunar month of Shravana. This festival is based on the traditional worship of snakes. Snakes, usually cobras are offered milk, sweets, and flowers and are worshipped on this day. it is a common sight to see snakes carved on stone and walls of temples. These idols are worshipped on this day. Some people observe a fast on this day too.
This section contains information about the origin of the festival and stories from Hindu mythology that can be taught or read aloud in class.
