17/08/2026
In Nepal, snakes are not simply feared — they are revered.
On Nag Panchami, devotees worship the Nāgas, the divine serpent beings believed to protect water, land and life.
Ancient Hindu and Buddhist traditions speak of Nāgas as powerful guardians. Their stories appear in the Mahabharata, Puranas and Buddhist traditions, while images of serpent deities can still be found around temples, ponds and old courtyards across the Kathmandu Valley.
One fascinating tradition is the worship of Kaliya Nāga, remembered from the story of Krishna.
But Nag Panchami is more than mythology.
Snakes play an important role in nature by controlling pests and maintaining ecological balance. This ancient festival reminds us that even creatures we fear have an important place in our world.
Perhaps that is one of Nepal’s most beautiful lessons:
To respect nature is also to respect life. 🙏
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