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Naag Panchami being marked today

Kathmandu: Nag Panchami festival is being observed today across the country by Hindus as per the time-honoured tradition. The festival falls on the Shrawan Shukla Panchami as per the lunar calendar.

The festival is being marked by worshipping Naag or the snake god. As per the tradition, the picture of the Naag is pasted above the main door of the house as a symbol of protection.

It is believed that sticking the picture of the snake god safeguards the family from snakes and scorpions, fire and lightning.

Naag Puja is believed to have started in the Vedic time and Naag is considered the king of snakes as per the Vedic tradition.

Special worship and prayers are being offered at Nagpokhari and Taudaha in Kathmandu, Siddhapokhari in Bhaktapur and several other ponds and shrines across the country this day.

After worshipping, the snake god is offered cow milk, Dubo grass, rice pudding and roti with due respect.