Answer

Some Jains observe or acknowledge Nāg Panchamī mainly because of its connection with Lord Pārshvanāth, the 23rd Tīrthankar, and the story of Dharanendra and Padmāvatī.

In Jain tradition, snakes are not worshipped as supreme beings. Rather, the occasion is often understood through Jain values such as:

• Non-violence toward all living beings
• Compassion for animals, including snakes
• Remembering Lord Pārshvanāth’s protection and spiritual greatness
• Respect for Dharanendra and Padmāvatī as yaksha-yakshi connected with Pārshvanāth Bhagwan

Explanation

According to Jain tradition, in a previous incident connected with Lord Pārshvanāth, a snake was saved from harm. Later, that soul became Dharanendra, who protected Lord Pārshvanāth during severe hardship caused by Kamatha.

Because of this association, some Jain communities connect Nāg Panchamī with reverence for:

• Pārshvanāth Bhagwan
• Dharanendra Dev
• Padmāvatī Devī
• The Jain principle of jīva-dayā — compassion toward living beings

However, practices vary among Jain communities. Some Jains may observe it culturally because they live in regions where Nāg Panchamī is widely celebrated, while others may not observe it at all.

Spiritual Understanding

From a Jain point of view, the deeper meaning is not ritual worship of snakes, but the reminder that every living being has a soul. Even a snake is a jīva and should not be harmed.

Nāg Panchamī can therefore become a reminder of:

• Ahimsa — non-violence
• Karunā — compassion
• Protection of life
• Faith in the spiritual power of Tīrthankars

Takeaway

Some Jains celebrate or observe Nāg Panchamī because of its connection with Lord Pārshvanāth, Dharanendra, Padmāvatī, and the Jain teaching of compassion toward all living beings. It is not a central Jain festival for all Jains, and its observance differs by region and tradition.