Pics: Spoorthi Ullal

Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru/Udupi (MS)

Mangaluru/Udupi, Aug 21: Nagara Panchami, the feast of serpent god was celebrated with religious fervour in the twin districts with several devotees thronging various temples here on Monday August 21.

The festival was held with devotion in various Naga shrines including the renowned ones like Kukke Sri Subramanya Kshetra, Kudupu Sri Anantapadmanabha temple, Udupi Sri Krishna Math, four Skandalayas (Mucchalakodu, Mangodu, Tangodu, Aritodu), Sri Venkatramana temple, Neelavara Panchamikana, Sagri Vasuki Ananta Padmanabha temple and Badagupete Anantapadmanabha temple.

In addition, the ritual will be held at various family Moola Nagabanas also. Purchasing was in full swing on Sunday for the festival. Special poojas and religious programmes will be held on the day of Nagara Panchami.

The price of various essential items required for Nagara Panchami increased. The rate of tender coconut and Pingara flower that are essential for Nagara Panchami shot up. Tender coconut price reached Rs 40 to 45 per piece. Kendale (brown tender coconut) was being sold at Rs 50 per piece. Though lots of flowers arrived in the market, the price was high.

The serpent god occupies a distinct place in the coast and the day is celebrated because Lord Krishna had killed 'Kalinga Sarpa' on this day. On the day of Nagara Panchami, the devotees worship snakes to ward off evil spirits.