সুরমা-বরাক উপত্যকায় মনসা পূজার ঐতিহ্য ও নৌকা পূজা : একটি পর্যালোচনা / The Tradition of Manasa Puja and Boat Worship in the Surma–Barak Valley: A Review

Abstract

The Barak Valley, situated in the southernmost part of Assam, is a densely populated Bengali-speaking region and an integral part of the larger Bengali cultural sphere. Enclosed by rivers and hills, this riverine landscape has nurtured a rich folk tradition, among which the worship of Goddess Manasa occupies a prominent place. Manasa Puja is widely observed in Bengali households, particularly during the month of Shravan through the recitation of Padmapurana (Manasa mangal), culminating on Shravan Sankranti. Apart from these domestic rituals, Manasa Puja is also performed on various Panchami tithis and Mondays throughout the year.

          A distinctive and elaborate form of Manasa worship, locally known as Nouka Puja (Boat Worship), is observed on the Shukla Panchami of the month of Magh or Phalgun. This ritual, lasting for three, five, or eight days, constitutes a significant folk-religious festival of the Barak Valley. Ojhadance forms an inseparable component of Nouka Puja, and in several places the occasion is marked by the organization of folk fairs.

          Nouka Puja represents a confluence of diverse elements of folk culture, including folk dance, folk drama, folk festivals, myths, and traditional beliefs. Thus, it transcends the boundaries of mere religious worship and emerges as an important expression of the region’s vibrant folk heritage. Even in contemporary times, Nouka Puja continues to be celebrated with considerable grandeur across various parts of the Barak Valley. Based on data collected through fieldwork, this research paper attempts to present a comprehensive overview of Nouka Puja as a valuable and living tradition of the Barak Valley’s folk culture.