Agni Purāṇa
180 - Vows observed on the fifth lunar day
Agni said:
1-2. Ishall describe the vow (performed) on the fifth lunar day which would confer health, heaven and emancipation. The serpents Väsuki, Takshaka, Kaliya, Manibhadraka, Airavata, Dhrutarāshțra, Karkoțaka and Dhananjayashould be worshipped (on the fifth lunar-day) in the bright fortnight in the month of) nabhas (August-September), nabhasya (September-October), åśvina (October-November) and kārttika (November-December). These would confer protection from fear, longevity, learning, fame and wealth.
Summary of chapter 180 of the Agni Purāṇa is as follows:
Vratas on the fifth tithi centre on the propitiation of the eight great nāgas. On the śukla-pañcamīs of Śrāvaṇa, Bhādrapada, Āśvayuja, and Kārtika, the worshipper venerates the eight serpent-lords: Vāsuki, Takṣaka, Kāliya, Maṇibhadra, Airāvata, Dhṛtarāṣṭra, Karkoṭaka, and Dhanaṃjaya. Each nāga is worshipped with his preferred flower, milk, and sandal, and receives a specific prayer. The eight nāgas collectively bestow abhaya (fearlessness), long āyus, vidyā, yaśas, and śrī upon the devout worshipper. Nāga-pañcamī thus integrates serpent veneration—an ancient substratum of Indian religion—within the Purāṇic vrata framework.
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