Naag Panchami celebrated across Fiji with prayers, offerings

Thousands of Hindu devotees across Fiji gathered at temples today to observe Naag Panchami, a traditional festival dedicated to the worship of snake deities and marked by prayer, reflection and devotion.

Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran said the festival held deep religious, cultural and spiritual significance, drawing on ancient scriptures, mythology and traditional practices.

“Naag Panchami is a significant celebration for Hindu devotees where they visit temples dedicated to Nagas to offer their devotion,” Ms Kiran said.

“Many fast and take part in special prayers seeking protection and blessings for prosperity, health and wellbeing.”

At the Nagigi Naag Mandir in Labasa, members of a women’s group gathered yesterday to perform rituals for the protection of their families and the fertility of their land.

Nagigi Naag Mandir pundit Anil Maharaj said Naag Panchami rituals were a reminder of the sacred bond between humans and nature, emphasising respect and harmony with all creatures.

“We had people as far as from America, New Zealand and Australia worshipping and devotees who come here to pray and ask for something have received their blessings,” Pundit Maharaj said.

“Some of them returned to this temple to offer their thanksgiving and donation to the temple over the years.”

Hindu devotees gathered at Samabula Shiv Mandir in Suva to observe Nag Panchami with prayers, puja and traditional offerings. Inset: Shiv Mandir priest Dharmend Singh

Photos: Kritika Chand

At Samabula Shiv Mandir in Suva, pundit Dharmend Singh said the annual observance had been held at the temple for many years.

Devotees began arriving from as early as 6am to offer milk, water and flowers and to seek blessings.

Pundit Singh estimated that between 300 and 500 devotees attended throughout the day, with numbers potentially reaching 600 to 700 during the evening prayers.

He said Naag Panchami was observed as a day of devotion and worship, with devotees seeking blessings and expressing their faith.

“If you have complete faith, then all your wishes will come true,” Pundit Singh said.

Among the devotees was 66-year-old Saraswati Maharaj from Makoi, Nasinu, who said the celebration was an important family tradition.

“Naag Panchami is important to me and my family and we have followed this tradition for many years,” Ms Maharaj said.

The celebration continued throughout the day, with devotees gathering for evening prayers as part of the annual observance.