Goddess Manasa is a prominent Hindu deity venerated across Bengal and Eastern India as the goddess of serpents, poison-cure (Vishahari), and fertility. Canonical scriptures describe her as the daughter of Sage Kashyapa and Kadru (in folk traditions, born of Lord Shiva's mind), sister of the serpent king Vasuki, consort of Sage Jaratkaru, and mother of Sage Astika, who intervened to halt the mythical snake sacrifice (Sarpa Satra). She is traditionally depicted adorned with serpents, seated upon a lotus or swan, and is extensively worshipped through consecrated earthen pots (Manasa Ghat) or sacred branches of the Sij tree (Euphorbia neriifolia). (Source: Brahma Vaivarta Purana - Prakriti Khanda; Devi Bhagavata Purana - 9th Skandha; Manasamangal Kavya)
Manasa Puja
Last observed
Tue, August 18
About
Religious Significance
The significance of Manasa Puja lies in seeking divine protection against venomous snakebites, physical ailments, and securing fertility and familial prosperity. In the riverine floodplains of Bengal, where monsoons historically amplified human-snake interactions, this worship served as a spiritual fortress for rural communities. In regional literature, the medieval Manasamangal Kavya illustrates her supremacy and the triumph of devotion through the saga of merchant Chand Sadagar and the unyielding resilience of Behula. Scripturally, her maternal role in guiding Sage Astika to stop King Janamejaya's serpent slaughter underscores her status as the ultimate guardian of nature's reptilian realm. (Source: Mahabharata - Adi Parva/Astika Parva; Vijay Gupta's Padma Purana; Ketakadas Kshemananda's Manasamangal)
Rituals & Observances
Sacred Timing: Manasa Puja is observed on Nag Panchami (Shravana Shukla Panchami in July–August), throughout the sacred month of Shravana, and concludes on Bhadra Sankranti (Kanya Sankranti in mid-September).
Altar Setup & Offerings: Worship is performed before an idol, an earthen pot (Manasa Ghat), or a twig of the Sij tree. Offerings center on raw milk, ripe bananas, puffed rice (Khoi and Muri), sugar drops (Batasa), and seasonal fruits.
Arandhan (The Non-Cooking Ritual): On Bhadra Sankranti, households adhere to the 'Arandhan' custom where the domestic hearth is kept unlit. A lavish spread of delicacies (including fried vegetables, lentils, and Hilsa fish) is prepared the night before, offered to the goddess cold (Basi), and consumed as prasad.
Mangalkavya Ballads: Ritual festivities often feature communal night-long musical recitations of Manasamangal or Bhasan Gaan. (Source: Raghunandana's Tithitattva; Padma Purana; Bengal Folk Culture Archives)
When is Manasa Puja?
Where this festival is held
We don't know yet which temples observe Manasa Puja.
Know a temple that observes Manasa Puja?
No answers yet
Ask about this →Associated Deity
Manasa
View temples →
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Manasa Puja?
Manasa Puja was last observed on Tuesday, August 18, 2026 (Shashthi).
Is Manasa Puja performed only to protect against snakebites?
No. While protection from snakebites is a key concern, Manasa Puja is also performed to heal poison-related ailments, ward off diseases, ensure family welfare, and seek prosperity and children. Though she is revered as the curer of poison (Vishahari), her worship encompasses broader aspects of life, safety, and abundance.
Why is an idol replaced by an earthen pot or a branch of the Sij tree in Manasa Puja?
The use of an earthen pot (Manasa Ghat) or a Sij twig instead of an idol is rooted in folk belief that these forms themselves embody the goddess. The Sij tree is considered resistant to poison, and the pot symbolizes the life-giving power of water. This practice also reflects accessibility and adherence to traditional injunctions.
What is the significance of observing 'Arandhan' on Bhadra Sankranti during Manasa Puja?
'Arandhan' literally means abstaining from lighting the hearth. The ritual involves preparing an elaborate meal the night before and consuming it cold as prasad after the puja. This observance teaches the impermanence of life, the virtue of sacrifice, and symbolizes complete surrender to the goddess.
Is animal sacrifice part of Manasa Puja?
No, animal sacrifice is not a standard part of Manasa Puja. The primary offerings are vegetarian items such as milk, bananas, puffed rice, sugar drops, and cucumbers. While isolated or regional practices of chicken sacrifice may exist, they are not universal.
Is Manasa Puja observed only in rural areas?
No, Manasa Puja is observed both in rural and urban areas. In cities, families often gather in community halls or at home to perform the puja. However, rural settings typically feature more vibrant expressions of folk traditions such as musical recitals and community gatherings.
What role do women play in Manasa Puja?
Women play a central role in Manasa Puja as organizers and active participants. They lead the installation of the pot or idol, arrange offerings, prepare prasad, and conduct the ritual according to tradition. In many communities, women also sing devotional songs or recite verses during the puja.
Is there a specific dress code to be followed during Manasa Puja?
There is no strict dress code for Manasa Puja. However, clean and modest attire is customary. Many women choose to wear red or yellow saris, which are considered symbols of festivity and auspicious energy.
What kind of songs or hymns are sung during Manasa Puja?
During Manasa Puja, excerpts from the 'Manasamangal' epics, 'Manasar Bhasan' songs, and various folk hymns are sung. These compositions narrate the goddess’s glory, her power, and the triumph of devotion. In many places, the festivities include all-night musical performances and folk ballads.
What personal preparations are recommended for participating in Manasa Puja?
Personal preparations include maintaining cleanliness and reverence. It is advisable to bathe, wear clean clothes, and wash hands and face before entering the puja venue. Many devotees observe a fast or vow prior to the puja as a mark of devotion.
What kind of prasad is distributed after Manasa Puja?
After Manasa Puja, prasad typically includes milk, bananas, puffed rice, sugar drops, cucumbers, and other sweets. In households observing the Arandhan ritual on Bhadra Sankranti, stale rice and pre-prepared dishes from the night before are also distributed as prasad.