Nag Panchami draws hundreds to Samabula Shiv Mandir in Suva

Hundreds of devotees gathered at Samabula Shiv Mandir in Suva today to observe Nag Panchami with prayers, puja and traditional offerings.

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

Shiv Mandir priest Dharmend Singh, who began serving at the temple on August 5, 2024, said the annual observance had been held at the temple for many years.

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

“From morning till evening, a lot of people will come as there will be a prayer in the evening,” he said.

Mr Singh said Nag 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,” he said.

He also encouraged devotees to recite the “Om Namah Shivaya” mantra while making offerings to Lord Shiva.

Among the devotees was 66-year-old Saraswati Maharaj from 8 Miles, Nasinu, who said Nag Panchami was an important family tradition.

“Nag Panchami is important to me and my family. We believe in worshipping Naag Yata and have followed this tradition for many years,” she said.

Ms Maharaj said her family continued to observe the festival through puja and that she was happy to celebrate at the temple.

“I am very happy to celebrate Nag Panchami here. I feel good being able to come and perform puja,” she said.

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