Agartala: With Manasa Puja set to be observed tomorrow, markets across the region have come alive with idols of the snake goddess in small, medium and large sizes, as traders set up their stalls ahead of the festival.
Shopkeepers said idols of varying shapes and sizes have arrived in bulk over the past few days to meet the rising demand, with customers already thronging market areas to make their purchases a day ahead of the puja.
However, traders and buyers alike noted that idol prices this year have gone up compared to previous years. Sellers attributed the hike to rising costs of raw materials and transportation, while some customers expressed concern over the added expense during the festive season.
Manasa Puja, dedicated to the goddess of snakes, is widely observed across households and localities, with worship traditionally aimed at seeking protection from snakebites and ensuring the well-being of the family.
Markets are expected to remain busy through the day as last-minute preparations continue ahead of tomorrow’s rituals.