Kathmandu – Naga Panchami, a traditional Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of Lord Nagas (serpents), was celebrated with devotion at various locations today, including Naghpokhari in Naxal.
Naga Panchami is observed on the fifth day of the bright half of the lunar month of Shrawan, which fell on August 9th this year. The festival holds great significance in Hindu culture as devotees believe that worshiping Nagas brings protection from evil forces and ensures prosperity.
At Naghpokhari, a large number of devotees gathered to offer their prayers and perform rituals. One devotee shared, “Applying tika is a form of devotion to Lord Nagas. They are the most powerful creatures on earth, capable of bringing about tremendous changes and sensations.”
Around 22 priests were present at the main pond, assisting worshippers with the rituals. Among them were two main priests stationed on the east and west sides of the pond.
Prabin Nupane, a priest from Bhaktapur, mentioned, “I have practiced these rituals since a young age, but today, I feel slightly uneasy as it is my first time here at Naghpokhari, Naxal.” He also noted that he arrived at the site around 4 a.m.
The worshippers circled the pond, which features a pillar symbolizing the Nagas at its center, as part of the ritual. They believe that Lord Naga will protect them and their families from harm. Offerings included flowers, milk, cow dung, incense sticks, and dubo grass.
Vendors were present, selling worship items priced at Rs 100. A few police officers were deployed to maintain security and manage the crowd.
In addition to the religious activities, Lions Club International organized a free diabetes check-up camp on the occasion of Naga Panchami. According to Sanijb Dahal, Secretary of the Lions Club of Kathmandu Laliguransh, a total of 20 participants attended the camp, which was held from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m.
– By Grishma Tamang
