Manjusha Art

Manjushas are an Indian art form. They are temple-shaped boxes comprising eight pillars. They are made of bamboo, jute, and paper. They also contain paintings of Hindu gods and goddesses and other characters. These boxes are used in Bishahari puja, a festival dedicated to the Snake Goddess Bishahari that is celebrated in Bhagalpur and the Anga Pradesh region also known as Angika Belt and nearby regions, India.

Manjusha Art dates back to the 7th century and is considered one of the oldest art forms in Bihar. The term "Manjusha" means "box" in Sanskrit, and traditionally, these were temple-shaped boxes made from bamboo, jute, and paper, adorned with paintings depicting various deities and mythological scenes. These boxes played a significant role during the Bishahari Puja.

Manjusha Art, also known as Manjusha Kala, is a traditional folk art form originating from the Anga region, particularly Bhagalpur in Bihar, India. Manjusha art or Manjusha Kala is often referred to as Snake paintings by foreigners as swirling snakes in the art depict the central character in Bihula's tale of love and sacrifice. A recent study on Manjusha art provides an excellent example of how this art reflects the history of ancient Anga Mahajanapada.

Manjushakala.in - Initiative for promotion of Manjusha Art