Mithila refers to the which originated in the Mithila region of the Indian subcontinent. Mithila comprises Tirhut, Darbhanga, Kosi, Purnia, Munger, Bhagalpur and Santhal Pargana divisions of India and some adjoining districts of Nepal

Origin & History of Mithila painting

A 2500-year-old folk art, the history of Madhubani paintings is said to date back to the time of Ramayana, when king Janaka asked an artist to capture his daughter Sita’s wedding to prince Rama. These paintings were usually created by women on walls and floors of homes during festivals, ceremonies or special occasions. Having originated in the Mithila region in Bihar, this form of painting, also known as Mithila art, has been in practice in areas around Bihar and Nepal. Mithila painting or Bhitti Chitra was discovered in 1934 when a massive earthquake hit Bihar. The British Colonial officer of Madhubani district, William G. Archer chanced upon these paintings in the interior walls of the homes while he was examining the damage caused by the quake.

Style of mithila Painting

mithila Painting has five distinctive styles: Bharni, Kachni, Tantrik, Godna and Kohbar. In the 1960s Bharni, Kachni and Tantrik styles were mainly done by Brahman and Kayashth women, who are 'upper caste' women in Mithila Region. Their themes were mainly religious and they depicted Gods and Goddesses, plants and animals in their paintings. People of lower castes included aspects of their daily life and symbols and much more, in their paintings. Nowadays Madhubani art has become a globalised art form, so there is no difference in the work on the basis of the caste system. They work in all five styles. Mithila Painting has received worldwide attention

Innovation

Mithila Painintg celebrates every occasion and festival like wedding, Kali Puja, Durga Puja, Holi, and many more. Conventionally, this art was done to decorate and add colors to homes. But with changing times, it is now even done on clothing, handmade papier-mâché products and wall paintings. Universally known as the women’s art, today the creative world is seeing a gender shift where men are seen adding their artistic touch to this traditional art form. Paper stands, magazine case, games of Ludo, and jewellery boxes made of papier-mâché, book marks are painted with Maithila designs.