Handicraft / Paintings / Mithila Art

Mithila painting, commonly known as Madhubani art, is a vibrant, traditional folk art originating from the Mithila region of Bihar, India, and parts of Nepal. They were traditionally painted by women on freshly plastered mud walls and floors of huts during festivals, marriages, and religious rituals. They usually depict Hindu deities (Krishna, Rama, Shiva, Durga), scenes from the Ramayana, court scenes, wedding scenes, and nature (sun, moon, trees, animals). They traditionally used natural pigments (turmeric, rice powder, indigo) and tools like twigs, fingers, or matchsticks. Modern paintings are often made on handmade paper or canvas using acrylics, poster colors, and ink pens. Distinctive styles include Bharni (filled with color), Kachni (line art), Tantric, Godna (tattoo style), and Kohbar (nuptial chamber art).