West Bengal is famous for its rich cultural heritage and the uniqueness of its traditions. There is a festival here for every season and every occasion. Jhapan is one of the most unique festivals celebrated in West Bengal. The festival is dedicated to Goddess Mansha, believed to be the daughter of Lord Shiva, who is also considered to be the Goddess of Snakes. The western part of the state, especially Vishnupur in Bankura distict of West Bengal, celebrates this day with great élan.
Jhapan is celebrated in the month of Shravan (mid-August as per the Gregorian calendar). People worship Goddess Mansha - the Snake Goddess in this season, for good rainfall and enhancement of the fertility of their land. As West Bengal has an agro-based economy, the tradition is being carried out for a long time here. This celebration is considered to be auspicious for the coming harvest season. The festival is celebrated with local fairs and other festivities, like stage shows of local plays and snake shows by local snake charmers.