Villagers of Shirala in Sangli district have appealed to the Union Forest Minister for permission to worship live snakes during Nagpanchami 2025, reviving their ancient tradition amid legal restrictions.
Sangli| July 04,2025: In Shirala village of Sangli district, the worship of live snakes on Nagpanchami has been a revered tradition tracing back to 700 BC. For generations, villagers have celebrated the festival only by worshipping live cobras, making Shirala one of the most unique cultural spots in Maharashtra.
In recent years, following amendments to the Wildlife Protection Act, the worship of live snakes was prohibited to ensure animal safety. Since then, Shirala residents have been compelled to perform symbolic worship using snake idols or visuals instead of real snakes.
The ban has triggered resentment among villagers who see live snake worship as the soul of their Nagpanchami celebrations.
As Nagpanchami 2025 approaches on July 29, all Nagaraj Mandals in Shirala have come together and formally submitted a request to the Union Forest Minister. They are seeking permission to use live snakes only for religious purposes during the one-day festival.
The appeal is currently pending review, and a hearing is expected soon. The Shirala community is watching the decision closely, hoping the government will allow them to carry forward their age-old tradition.
For Shirala residents, Nagpanchami without a live snake is incomplete. While wildlife protection is crucial, the villagers argue that with proper guidelines and safety measures, the tradition can be revived without harming the snakes.
The final decision now lies with the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests. Until then, anticipation and hope fill the streets of Shirala. The villagers are determined to celebrate Nagpanchami 2025 the traditional way — with the living symbol of their cultural and spiritual heritage.
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