Maa manasha puja || Assam puja || 2026 puja || Maa manasha puja 2026||

Manasa Puja 2026: A Celebration of Devotion, Nature, and Resilience Manasa Puja, also known as Nag Panchami in various parts of India, is one of the most significant and ancient festivals celebrated in the eastern regions of India, particularly in West Bengal, Assam, Tripura, and parts of Odisha. Dedicated to Goddess Manasa, the deity of snakes and the daughter of Lord Shiva, this festival is a profound blend of mythology, folk culture, and the deep-seated human connection with nature. As we look toward Manasa Puja 2026, the festival continues to hold its place as a symbol of protection, fertility, and the triumph of faith over adversity. The Date and Timing for 2026 In 2026, Manasa Puja is expected to fall on Tuesday, August 18. According to the Hindu lunar calendar, the primary celebration occurs during the Shravana month, specifically on the Nag Panchami day. While rituals are performed throughout the monsoon months (Asar and Sravan), the culmination in mid-August marks the peak of the rainy season—the time when snakes are most active, making the goddess's protection most sought after. The Legend of Goddess Manasa To understand the grandeur of the puja, one must delve into the Manasamangal Kavya, a cycle of Bengali folk epics. The stories are not just religious texts but are foundational to the cultural identity of the region. The Origin Manasa was born from the mind (Manas) of Lord Shiva. Despite her divine lineage, she struggled for recognition among the gods and humans. Her primary goal was to establish her worship on earth, which she believed would grant her a seat in the divine pantheon. Behula and Lakshinder The most famous legend associated with the puja is the story of Chand Sadagar, a wealthy merchant and a staunch devotee of Lord Shiva who refused to worship Manasa. To humble him, Manasa took the lives of his six sons. When his seventh son, Lakshinder, was killed by a snake bite on his wedding night, his bride Behula refused to accept his death.