Madhubhani Paintings

Background

• Recently, Face masks adorned with Madhubani paintings have been in demand.

Description:

• It is a folk painting that evolved from the Mithila regionof India(now Bihar).
• It has been mentioned in ancient epics like the Ramayana.
• Historically these paintings were only done by women.
• Initially, women from village drew paintings on freshly plastered mud walls of their home as illustration of their thoughts, hopes and dreams using fingers and twigs forming two dimensional imagery using paste of powdered rice.
• With time, it became part of festivities and special events like marriage. It also used colors derived from vegetables and plants.
•  Now they are also painted on cloth, handmade paper and canvas.
• The central themes of Mithila paintings are based on Hindu Gods and Goddesses.
• Its main theme is supported by traditional geometric patterns.
• Bharni, Tantrik, Katchni, Godna, and Kohbarare variations within this style.
• It is also GI tag designated.

PRELIMS QUESTION

This painting style from Mithila region is made by women. They are traditionally done on mud walls and floors. Paste of powdered rice is used to make the paintings. Identify the style of paintings discussed above:
(a)Sanchi paintings
(b)Kalighat paintings
(c)Warli paintings
(d)Madhubhani paintings

Answer to prelims question