Madhubani Painting: A look into its Origin and culture | Shop & Ship From India

Humans have long used art to express emotions and record important events or festivals. Poetry, music, dance, architecture, sculptures, murals and paintings are some examples of expression through art. One such fine art form that dates back thousands of years to the time of Ramayan is the ancient Madhubani art. It is a wall painting style depicting everyday life through natural colours, stunning details and designs related to Hindu mythology, nature and festivals. The art is still alive in some regions of Bihar in the form of saleable Madhubani paintings, making it the source of livelihood for many skilled artisans.

The Origin Story

Many years ago, King Janaka of Mithila commissioned the local artisans to create paintings of the ceremonious wedding of his daughter, Princess Sita, to Prince Ram of Ayodhya. Thus, the famous Madhubani paintings came into existence when the painter painted the walls in mesmerising murals of the wedding. Since then, people have begun the custom of painting the walls of their houses in the same style to commemorate the auspicious event. Today, Madhubani art is not just confined to walls but has taken the form of canvas paintings and designer clothes, shoes, shawls, bedsheets, cushions, etc.

How is it made?

Madhubani paintings depict folklore, tradition, culture, mythology and history through intricate floral detailings and figures of deities and people. Traditionally, artisans used organic plant-based colours, bamboo sticks and cotton to paint on mud surfaces to create illustrations. Earlier, only the womenfolk drew it on the walls of Gosai Ghar (prayer room), verandah and Kohbar Ghar (newlyweds' room). Now even the men have learned the craft to meet the ever-increasing demand.

Though the local artisans only use natural dyes, the colour range of Madhubani paintings is not limited to just one or two colours. Painters use black made from burnt Kajal, yellow from turmeric, blue from Indigo, red from Kusum flower, green from Bilva leaf, orange from Palash flower and white from rice powder to create the most stunning depiction of everyday life.

Madhubani paintings have not just added richness to the culture but also provided a means of livelihood to many women in rural India. Their work reflects their hopes, dreams, aspirations and thoughts. Pushpa Kumari of Ranti village, Ganga Devi from Rasigpur village, Sita Devi from Jitwarpur village and Mahasundari Devi from Madhubani town have earned many accolades for their tremendous efforts to bring global recognition to Madhubani art and work on women empowerment.

Top Madhubani Art Picks

Madhubani Wedding Painting

The Madhubani Wedding painting is handpainted with organic colours on handmade paper following the ancient technique used by local artisans. It features lotus plants, bamboo, fish, snakes, and birds depicting a wedding ceremony. It symbolises the old Kohbad Grah Madhubani paintings that bring good luck and prosperity to the newlyweds.

Tree of Life in Madhubani Art

The Tree of Life is a beautiful handpainted Madhubani painting depicting the tree of life with birds, animals and the sun in complete harmony. Bring home the age-old tradition of Mithila to adorn your homes with tradition.

Madhubani Frame

The Madhubani frame is the perfect blend of modern aesthetics and traditional cultural art. It is also the ideal gift for any art connoisseurs out there. Featuring bright colours and floral motifs, it will bring brightness to your space.

Madhubani Handpainted Cushions

The handpainted Madhubani cushions are perfect for any home. Made with utmost care and skill, it features Madhubani fish in the middle and floral designs on the border. Add cultural glam to your home decor or gift it to a loved one as a reminder of Indian heritage.

Madhubani Saree

As history dictates, Madhubani art is just to be painted on the walls or canvas, but not anymore. Artisans use it as prints on Sarees, suits, shawls and other clothes. The turquoise Saree is the very example of new age tradition and cultural heritage as it blends perfectly with the wedding-style Madhubani painting. Carry the elegance of art and the grace of an Indian outfit in this Saree.

How to shop Madhubani art with Shoppre?

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Madhubani painting is a 2500 years old style of wall painting practised in Bihar, India. Take a closer look at the beautiful Madhubani art through stunning paintings, tapestries, Madhubani sarees etc.