Dharma-mangal

The Dharma-mangal is a genre of eulogistic verse in Bengali literature that celebrates the folk deity Dharma-Thakur. These poems, which can range from a few hundred to several thousand lines, are often performed at festivals honoring the deity. Unlike canonical religious texts, mangal poetry is noncanonical and has evolved over time, with performers incorporating their own stories and observations.12

The Dharma-mangal specifically recounts the exploits of Dharma-Thakur, who is worshipped as a "high god" in eastern India, particularly in West Bengal. These works are valuable not only as religious documents but also for their historical insights into society. The poems typically tell the story of how a deity established their worship on Earth, and the Dharma-mangal includes an account of the world's creation. The language and imagery used are often drawn from village life, reflecting an earthy style distinct from more formal poetry.12