Nag Panchami / Manasa Panchami

3 August 2026

Significance

Celebrated in Bengal on the Krishna Panchami (dark fortnight) of the Shravana month. It is dedicated to the worship of serpent deities (Nagas) and Goddess Manasa. Devotees pray to protect their families from snakebites during the monsoon season. (Note: While the rest of India observes this on Shukla Panchami, the Bengal Panjika strictly dictates Krishna Panchami).

Rituals & Customs

Devotees offer milk, rice, and flowers to idols or pictures of snakes. Worshipping Lord Shiva is central to the day. Digging the earth, plowing fields, or cutting leafy vegetables is strictly prohibited on this day.

Fasting Rules

Devotees observe a fast from the morning. The fast is typically broken in the evening after completing the puja, followed by a pure Sattvic (vegetarian) meal.

Auspicious Timing

Morning to forenoon during the specific auspicious window of the Krishna Panchami tithi.

Consult an Astrologer