Nagula Chavithi: The Worship of Serpent Gods

 Grand Celebrations of Nagula Chavithi

Nagula Chavithi is a sacred Hindu festival celebrated with great devotion across India, especially in South Indian states. It is dedicated to the worship of serpents (Nagas), who are regarded as symbols of time, movement, and divine power. The word Naga is derived from Na + Aga, meaning “that which keeps moving.” In this sense, serpents represent the unstoppable flow of time — hence the term Kalanaga (Serpent of Time).

According to astrology, those affected by Kaalasarpa Dosha may face obstacles in life, and worshipping serpents during the holy month of Karthika Masam is believed to remove such difficulties. Serpents hold an important place in Hindu tradition — Lord Vishnu rests upon Adisesha, while Lord Shiva adorns serpents around his neck. Therefore, worshipping Nagas is said to bestow the combined blessings of both Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.

On the day of Nagula Chavithi, devotees offer milk to anthills or serpent shrines, light lamps, and chant special mantras. This offering symbolises purity, gratitude, and the act of seeking protection from negative influences. The ritual also reminds devotees to live in harmony with nature and all living beings.

In rural areas, this festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Farmers especially observe Nagula Chavithi with devotion, as serpents protect crops by eating rodents and maintaining soil fertility. It is also believed that worshipping Nagas brings health, fertility, and prosperity to the family.

According to tradition, twelve divine serpents — Ananta, Vasuki, Shesha, Padma, Kambala, Karkotaka, Ashvatara, Dhritarashtra, Shankhapala, Kaliya, Takshaka, and Pingala — are worshipped on this day. Devotees recite mantras and offer milk, turmeric, and rice flour at anthills. Parents encourage children to perform these rituals to learn compassion, forgiveness, and respect for all creatures.

Spiritually, Nagula Chavithi teaches that the divine exists in every living being. By worshipping the serpent, one honours nature, removes inner negativity, and seeks divine blessings for peace and prosperity.

      "Sarvam Sri Krishnarpanamastu

"Loka Samasta Sukhino Bhavantu