The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), Regional Office, Patna, in collaboration with the District Administration, Bhagalpur, organized a two-day Manjusha Workshop for female inmates of Shaheed Jubba Sahni Central Jail, Bhagalpur and students of Kilkari Bihar Bal Bhawan, Bhagalpur, on 08–09 August 2026 under the Horizon Series Programme (HSP). The workshop was conducted by renowned Manjusha artist Manoj Kumar Pandit. The initiative aimed to promote cultural engagement, encourage creative expression and provide participants with an opportunity to connect with Bihar's rich Manjusha art heritage. Notably, this is the first time that a workshop of this kind has been organized for female inmates by ICCR, marking a significant step towards using traditional art as a medium for cultural enrichment, creativity and social inclusion.

Manjusha, a traditional folk art of Bihar's Anga region, is known for its vibrant colours, distinctive motifs and storytelling rooted in the folklore of Bihula-Bishari. The narrative centres on Mansa Devi (Bishari), the serpent goddess, whose legend symbolizes faith, devotion and resilience. Believed to date back to the 7th century, Manjusha Art is regarded as one of India's few traditional scroll paintings, presenting stories through a sequence of paintings. Characterized by line drawings, the use of three colours—pink, green and yellow—and distinctive 'X'-shaped human figures, the art is closely associated with the religious festival of Bishari Puja and reflects the rich cultural heritage of Bhagalpur, Bihar.

During the workshop, participants were introduced to the history, cultural significance and artistic techniques of Manjusha Art through lectures, practical demonstrations and interactive sessions. Around 20 female inmates of Shaheed Jubba Sahni Central Jail and more than 40 students from Kilkari Bihar Bal Bhawan received hands-on training under the guidance of Sh. Manoj Kumar Pandit, who encouraged them to explore their creativity while learning the traditional art form.

As a continuation of the initiative, the female inmates made a permanent Manjusha mural inside the jail premises. The mural was inaugurated by Shalini to commemorate Bihula Festival on 19 August, 2026, serving as a lasting symbol of Bihar's cultural heritage, artistic expression and community engagement.

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