Manasa Devi: Serpent-Queen of the Waters

"This contemporary piece depicts Manasa Devi, serpent-queen of eastern India, seated in lalitasana astride a duck vahana upon a lotus-ringed water base. A crown of rearing cobras rises behind her; four arms display emblematic attributes—lotuses in the upper hands, a protective gesture and boon-bestowal below—while a live serpent coils from her wrist, affirming her command of the naga realm. In regional worship and the Manasamangal narratives, Manasa is invoked for protection from snakebite, healing, and fertility. The waterfowl mount and lotus setting signal her sovereignty over rivers and marshlands where serpents dwell"