Nagula Chaviti
This is observed on the fourth day of the bright fortnight in
the month of either Sravana or Kartika. This is a pre-historic
celebration of Naga or Serpent-worship observed throughout Andhra. Every
village in Andhra has some or other Naga idol carved in stone or wood.
Generally the women fast on this day and propitiate Nagas by offering
fresh, un-boiled cow's milk.
Many families have ant - hills
which have been worshipped for generations. Miniature silver
eyes and hoods of the Serpent God are placed on the ant - hills and
coconuts are broken. Some people have gold and silver images
along with their family deities for daily worship. Charimidi, Pamakam
and vada pappu are the special dishes for this day. After praying
to the Naga for protection of the family and children, particularly
from snake bite, people smear their eyes and ears with the earth from
the ant - hills. There are many Telugu folk songs sung in the
praise of the Serpent God.
