Manabasa Gurubar is a legend from the ancient Odia scripture Laxmi Puran. It tells the story of a low-caste woman named Shriya who dared to pray and worship Goddess Laxmi, angering Balaram and getting expelled from the Jagannath Temple in Puri. As she left, Shriya cursed Balaram and his brother to go without food or shelter for 12 years. They realized their mistake and agreed for Laxmi to return only if discrimination based on caste or creed would end. The legend speaks against untouchability and emphasizes feminism and female empowerment.

1. Manabasa Gurubar
Observed In Odia Households

2. Manabasa Gurubar
Observed In Odia Households
The Legend of Manabasa Gurubar is based on the ancient scripture “Laxmi Puran”. In
ancient time, the untouchables were not allowed to pray, worship and do rituals to God in
the ancient ages. But Shriya, a scavenger low caste woman, dared to pray and worship and
appease the Goddess, who then visits her.This act, however, angers Balaram, the elder
brother of Jagannath, and she is turned out of Jagannath Temple, Puri, at his behest.
The Goddess is shown the door for ending discrimination on earth by encouraging even
untouchables to conduct rituals and worship. While leaving the temple, she curses her
husband and elder brother-in-law saying that they would have to go through a prolonged
ordeal without food, water or shelter. The curse of Laxmi has a severe impact on both the
brothers for 12 years and they had a tough time. Soon they realise her importance and
Laxmi agrees to return but on one condition that there will be no discrimination of caste
and creed on earth.The Purana raises voice against the evil practice of untouchability in
society. It also stresses on the importance of feminism and empowers the female to resist
male hegemony.