The Cultural Significance of Manasa Puja among the Bedia Tribe: An Anthropological Study

Jagdeep Oraon; Sonali Murmu; Uday Kumar Kundu

doi:10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i04.54098

The Cultural Significance of Manasa Puja among the Bedia Tribe: An Anthropological Study

Author(s)	Dr. Jagdeep Oraon, Ms. Sonali Murmu, Mr. Uday Kumar Kundu
Country	India
Abstract	The present study focuses on the nomadic or semi-nomadic community known as the Bedia of West Bengal. The Tribal Development Department of the Government of West Bengal recognizes the Bedia / Bede / Bediya as a Scheduled Tribe. According to the 2011 Census, the total population of Bedias in West Bengal is 88,772, which constitutes 1.67 percent of the total tribal population in the state. The Bedias, who reside in the Purulia district, traditionally earn their livelihood as snake charmers. Various legislative changes, both before and after India's independence, have adversely affected them. The British government appropriated their land and forests, while the Indian government has impacted their means of livelihood. They rely heavily on the forest and the art of snake charming (Shaap Khela) for their survival. The Bedia tribe holds deep reverence for Manasa Devi, dedicating themselves to her worship (puja). Their vibrant festivals and rituals reflect this devotion, attracting participation from neighbouring communities. These gatherings help reinforce their cultural identity and strengthen their social bonds. Manasa Puja is a significant festival celebrated in West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, and other parts of India, often under various names. In rural areas and forests, snake bites are common during the monsoon season. Consequently, Manasa Devi is honoured as the Goddess of Serpents, with rural communities worshipping her for protection against snakebites and seeking her blessings for prosperity. In this study, we conduct a qualitative ethnographic investigation to explore the social and cultural significance of the Bedia Tribe. We gather primary data through extensive fieldwork, including observations, interviews, and focused group discussions. Additionally, this research incorporates secondary data from books, journals, reports, articles, and online sources. Our findings reveal the intricate social structures and cultural practices that shape the identity of the Bedia Tribe.
Keywords	Bedia, Snake, Snake Charmer, Manasa Puja, Culture, Purulia
Field	Arts
Published In	Volume 7, Issue 4, July-August 2025
Published On	2025-08-23
DOI	https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i04.54098

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The Cultural Significance of Manasa Puja among the Bedia Tribe: An Anthropological Study

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