Nagula Chavithi, a revered festival for worshiping serpent deities, holds deep significance for Hindu devotees, especially in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Observed on the fourth day after Diwali Amavasya in the Hindu month of Kartika, the festival is dedicated to Nagadevata, the serpent god, with devotees seeking protection and blessings for their families, particularly children. Although commonly celebrated in Kartika, some regions observe this sacred day in the month of Shravana.

Celebrations in Vijayawada
In Vijayawada, the Nagula Chavithi festivities are grand, with devotees gathering in large numbers at prominent temples like the Chodavaram Nagendra Swamy Temple and Subrahmanyeshwar Swamy Temple in Ayyappa Nagar. Special arrangements are made for the worshippers, who perform abhishekam (ritual bathing) of the serpent idols with cow’s milk. Women participate in the rituals fervently, pouring milk into the snake pits (putta) as part of their prayers for the wellbeing of their children.

Rituals and Traditions of Nagula Chavithi
Nagula Chavithi is marked by distinct rituals. While some people worship snake idols at home, others visit serpent mounds or snake pits, where they offer milk and perform Naga Puja. The offerings, called 'naivedyam,' include sweets made from milk, jaggery, black sesame, turmeric, and saffron. Some devotees even place eggs at the serpent’s mound, along with flowers and lamps, to honor Nagadevata. After the pooja, women collect putta mannu (holy soil) from the mound, which they believe has healing properties.

For many, the act of worship on both Nagula Chavithi and Nagula Panchami is thought to bring good health, prosperity, and protection from diseases. Fasting is also a common observance on this day, with devotees dedicating their prayers to keep their children safe from harm.

Auspicious Muhurat
This year, the Muhurat for Nagula Chavithi began on November 4 at 8:53 PM and continues until 9:25 PM on November 5. Priests suggest that the ideal time for performing the milk offerings at the serpent’s mound is between 8:21 AM and 9:16 AM. Additionally, a special celebration will be held in Tirumala, where devotees can witness Malayappaswamy, along with his consort and brothers, giving darshan (sacred viewing) on the grand Peddashesha vehicle between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM.

Nagula Chavithi remains a profound day of devotion, where prayers and rituals are intertwined with deep-rooted cultural significance, honoring the serpent deity’s role in safeguarding families and fostering health and prosperity.

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