Lucknow. The festival of Nag Panchami is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm in the month of Sawan. In Hindu religious traditions, along with worshiping the snake god, offering sweet kheer and puri on the day of Nag Panchami is considered very auspicious. But do you know that in many areas it is prohibited to make or eat kheer during the days of Sawan before Nag Panchami? According to folk beliefs and elders, making kheer at home before the completion of Nag Panchami puja is considered taboo. Let us know the religious beliefs and scientific reasons behind this tradition.
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Religious beliefs and mythological reasons
First offering of snake god: According to mythological beliefs, the first kheer made after the beginning of the month of Sawan is considered to be the first right of the serpent god and Lord Shiva.
Accepting Prasad only after puja: In the month of Sawan, unless the snake god is duly worshiped on Nag Panchami and milk and kheer are offered to him, it is considered inappropriate for the family members to consume kheer.
Protection from inauspiciousness: According to rural and traditional beliefs, making kheer before Nag Panchami can displease the snake god, due to which there is a fear of affecting the happiness and prosperity in the house.
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Scientific and practical aspects
Fear of spoilage of milk: Due to excessive moisture and rainfall in the month of Sawan, the possibility of milk curdling or spoiling increases.
Effect on digestive system: The digestive system of the body slows down a bit during the rainy season. Thick kheer made from milk and rice is heavy to digest. In such a situation, to avoid stomach related problems, it is advised to avoid heavy food at the beginning of Sawan.
Infestation of insects: Due to moisture during Sawan, poisonous creatures and snakes come out of their holes. In earlier times, such traditions were also created to maintain caution while cooking food in the open.
Importance of Kheer on Nag Panchami: On the day of Nag Panchami, Kheer is offered to the snake god during the puja. After the puja, the entire family consumes it as Prasad. It is believed that consuming kheer on this day brings sweetness in family life and provides relief from the fear of snakes.
This tradition of not eating kheer before Nag Panchami is a unique combination of religious faith and health safety. This tradition teaches us to be alert towards nature, festival rules and our health.
Report: Deepanjali Mishra