The celebration of Nag Panchami in the
month of Shravan signifies the deep association of the serpent in Hindu beliefs.
Every Indian festival is celebrated in different ways across the nation. Nag
Panchami being no exception, is celebrated quite differently in Goa as compared
to other parts of India. The most common ways of celebrating Nag Panchami in
Goa include people refraining from digging the earth on this day. The idol of
nag, made out of clay, is worshipped and offerings of ‘durva’ are made along
with preparation of the most favoured ‘patolleo’ in Goan homes.
It is also a popular belief in Hinduism
that the thousand-hooded Shesh Nag who symbolises eternity, holds the entire
earth on its hood. The hood is also the resting seat of Lord Vishnu. Stories of
the association of Hindu gods with snakes also enhance the significance of
their existence. According to mythology, the elder brother of Lord Krishna,
Balram was an incarnation of Shesh Nag on earth. The snake is also given due
importance because it is considered to be the ornament of Lord Shiva which is
always seen around his neck. Therefore, by worshipping snakes, devout Hindus
also try to please Lord Shiva. Some even worship living cobras on this day.
