In the Sanatan way of life, snakes play a particular role and are considered symbols of protection and divinity. Lord Vishnu is normally represented lying on Anant Sheshnag and Lord Shiva normally graces himself with the Nagraj Vasuki as an ornament around his neck. This is one of the deep religious associations which constitute an integral part of the traditions associated with Nag Panchami.
Serpent worship is linked with many important temples such as the ancient Nag Temple of Hatkeshwar ward of Dhamtari city in Chhattisgarh. The temple is believed to be 11 centuries old and is revered by numerous devotees, especially during Nag Panchami.
The Remedies of Nag Panchami are based on the religious beliefs in which the roots of them have been associated with a incident mentioned in the Mahabharata. After a sage curses, Takshak is let loose by King Parikshit’s grandfather, Arjuna’s grandson, to bite King Parikshit. His son, Janamejaya, is believed to have organised the Sarpa Satra, a large scale ritual that aimed to eradicate the serpent race, after killing his father.When Janamejaya was convinced that his father was murdered, he organised Sarpa Satra, a huge ritual that was meant to destroy the race of serpents.
The powerful mantras of the yajna started to draw the snakes to the fire, as per the legend. Taking shelter with Lord Indra, Lord Takshak too found refuge, it was found that even Indra’s throne was drawn towards the yajna. At this moment Janamejaya had stopped the ritual and was about to perform the sacrifice when Astik Muni intervened and convinced him to not perform the ritual, for fear of tipping cosmic balance off. The yajna has been believed to be concluded during the Panchami of Shravan Shukla Paksha which has come to be known as Nag Panchami.
People come to the Nag temple in Dhamtari to pray and get blessings from the saint from morning. Snakes are believed to be protectors of the surrounding area and to keep the devotees safe from snakes.
The snail was a symbol of the temple and is held in high regard, it is said to have a lot of secrets. This is visited all year round and stands out as a special day on Nag Panchami. Many feel spiritual benefits are experienced when they worship here, which include peace and prosperity, and have been claimed to be relief from fears and troubles.