Manasa Puja 2026: Government Holiday Announced in Purulia and Bankura

Purulia: The West Bengal government has announced a government holiday in Purulia and Bankura on the occasion of Manasa Puja. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari made the announcement during a public meeting at Manbazar in Purulia on Monday, August 17.

Speaking at the meeting, the Chief Minister said that Manasa Puja would be celebrated the following day and highlighted the cultural and traditional importance of the festival.

“Ma Manasa’s Puja is tomorrow. Preparations for the festival have already begun. It is a tradition and an important part of our heritage,” the Chief Minister said.

The announcement means that government offices and institutions in Purulia and Bankura will observe a holiday on the occasion of Manasa Puja.

Manasa Puja is traditionally celebrated with devotion across several parts of Bengal, particularly in rural areas. The festival is dedicated to Goddess Manasa, who is worshipped as the goddess associated with snakes and protection from snakebites.

The festival holds particular cultural significance in parts of southern and western Bengal, where communities organise religious rituals and local celebrations.

The announcement of a government holiday in Purulia and Bankura is expected to allow residents to participate in the traditional celebrations and religious programmes associated with Manasa Puja.

The Chief Minister made the announcement while addressing the gathering at Manbazar, where he also spoke about the cultural traditions and local issues of the region.

The government’s decision has been welcomed by people who observe Manasa Puja and consider the festival an important part of the region’s cultural heritage.