Following the vibrant celebrations of Diwali, the festival of Nagula Chavithi is observed on the Shuddha Chavithi day of the Kartika month. This year, the festival is shrouded in some confusion regarding its date, prompting discussions among devotees about the best time to honor the Naga Goddess.
Significance of Nagula Chavithi
The festival is deeply rooted in Hindu traditions, particularly in the Telugu states, where it is celebrated with great devotion. On this day, devotees wake up early, take a purifying bath, and visit nearby Nagula mounds to pour milk and offer prayers, seeking the blessings of the Naga Goddess. Fasting is a common practice during this time, symbolizing respect and devotion.
Rituals and Customs
In Hindu mythology, snakes are revered as deities. The Puranas describe the sacredness of snakes, noting that Lord Shiva’s necklace is adorned with them, and they are associated with Lord Vishnu as well. The essence of Sanatana Dharma emphasizes seeing the divine in all living beings, which includes various creatures, from trees and birds to snakes. Thus, Nagula Chavithi embodies a profound connection to nature and spirituality.
Confusion About the Celebration Date
This year, there is a bit of a gandara gola (confusion) regarding when to celebrate Nagula Chavithi. According to the Panchangam, the Chaviti Tidhi spans two days. Specifically:
- Chaviti Thidhi begins on November 4th at 8 PM and lasts until November 5th at 8:56 PM.
While many scholars suggest celebrating the festival on November 5th, as the Chaviti Tidhi will be observed from sunrise to sunset, others propose that it should be marked on November 4th when the Thidhi starts.
Conclusion
As the festival approaches, it is important for devotees to confirm with local traditions and community leaders regarding the date of celebration. Whether on November 4th or 5th, the essence of Nagula Chavithi lies in the devotion and reverence shown towards the Naga Goddess. May this festival bring blessings and prosperity to all who celebrate!
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