The Legend of Behula and Lakhindar

 


The Legend of Behula and Lakhindar

This timeless tale, part of the Manasamangal Kavya, is one of the most cherished myths in Bengali culture. It revolves around devotion, love, and the trials of the goddess Manasa, the serpent deity.

Manasa’s Demand for Worship

Manasa, the goddess of snakes, sought to be worshiped by the people of Bengal. However, Chand Saudagar, a wealthy and devout merchant, refused to worship her. He was a staunch devotee of Shiva and despised Manasa, viewing her as a lesser deity. Enraged, Manasa vowed to destroy Chand’s family and legacy until he agreed to worship her.

The Tragic Wedding of Lakhindar and Behula

Manasa unleashed her wrath on Chand Saudagar’s family, killing his six sons with snake bites. When his seventh son, Lakhindar, was born, Chand went to great lengths to protect him. He built an iron chamber (a bridal room) for Lakhindar, impervious to snakes.

Lakhindar was married to Behula, a woman of extraordinary beauty, wisdom, and devotion. On their wedding night, however, Manasa sent her most venomous snake, Kalnagini, to the chamber. The snake slipped through a tiny crack and bit Lakhindar, killing him instantly.

Behula’s Devotion and Journey

Distraught but determined, Behula refused to cremate her husband. She placed Lakhindar’s body on a raft and set out on a perilous journey down the river to plead with the gods for his life. Behula’s journey was fraught with danger, trials, and divine tests. She encountered supernatural beings, faced storms, and endured countless hardships, yet her unwavering love and devotion kept her going.

The Revival of Lakhindar

Impressed by Behula’s determination, Manasa finally relented. She agreed to revive Lakhindar on one condition: Chand Saudagar must bow to her and worship her. Faced with no choice, Chand Saudagar finally offered a single flower with his left hand—a symbolic gesture of reluctant worship.

Manasa, appeased, revived Lakhindar and restored peace to Chand Saudagar’s family. Behula and Lakhindar returned home, and their love became a symbol of devotion and resilience.

Symbolism of the Tale

This legend is deeply symbolic in Bengali culture:

  • Manasa represents the untamed power of nature and the inevitability of compromise with forces beyond human control.
  • Behula’s journey symbolizes unwavering faith, perseverance, and the power of love to conquer even death.
  • Chand Saudagar’s resistance reflects human pride and the struggle to accept change, while his eventual surrender highlights the need for humility and adaptation.
  • This story continues to be celebrated in Bengal through folk songs, plays, and art

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