About the Tradition
Manjusha Art is an ancient folk art form originating from the Anga region (modern-day Bhagalpur) of Bihar. It is a unique scroll painting style that sequentially narrates the mythological love story of Bihula and Bala Lakhendar, and the snake goddess Manasa (Bishahari). Key Features: - Color Palette: The art strictly uses only three colors: Green (symbolizing nature and growth), Yellow (symbolizing energy and optimism), and Pink/Red (symbolizing love and power). - Snake Motifs: As it is dedicated to the snake goddess, snake designs (Bishahari) form a dominant border motif in almost all paintings. - Form: The characters are drawn with prominent ears and eyes, and are depicted in profile. The art is traditionally painted on paper, jute, and wooden boxes (manjushas). Cultural Status: Manjusha art is one of the oldest visual narration techniques in India, deeply tied to the local Bihula-Bishahari festival of Bhagalpur.