Manjusha Art
The Snake Scrolls of Anga Region
Origin
Anga Region (Bhagalpur)
Folk Story
Bihula & Bishahari (Snake Goddesses)
Color Scheme
Pink, Green, and Yellow ONLY
Tradition
Scroll painting on jute/paper boxes
Watch and Learn! 📺
Manjusha Art is a unique folk art form originating from the Bhagalpur (ancient Anga) region of Bihar. It is also known as scroll painting or snake painting due to its prominent snake motifs. The art is centered around the folk tale of Bihula, a devoted wife who saved her husband's life from the snake goddess Bishahari. Traditionally, the paintings were made on clay pots and bamboo boxes ('Manjusha') used during festivals. A unique feature of Manjusha art is the strict rule of using only three colors: Pink, Green, and Yellow. The characters always have wavy outlines, elongated eyes, and distinct borders representing snake curls or sacred designs.
Listen to Audio Guide 🎧
Let our voice assistant read this story out loud for you!
Test Your Knowledge! 🎯
Which region of Bihar is Manjusha Art associated with?
How many specific colors are traditionally allowed in Manjusha Art?
What central folk story is illustrated in Manjusha paintings?
Paint the traditional snake box on your workbook! Remember, you must ONLY use Pink, Green, and Yellow. Complete the wavy snake borders and paint the brave Bihula navigating her wooden raft.
Check your workbook for details.