Banana Fiber

 Name- Abhishek Chandra Singh

Course- B.Com(hons)

Phone number- 9654845453

Email id- abhishekkuki4@gmail.com

Home town address- Madhubani

MADHUBANI PAINTING

A JOURNEY THROUGH TRADITION AND ARTISTRY

INTRODUCTION

Madhubani painting, also known as Mithila painting, is a traditional art form that originated in the Mithila region of Bihar, India. This unique style of painting is characterized by intricate designs, vibrant colors, and detailed depictions of natural elements, religious themes, and folklore.

The art form is typically created using natural dyes and pigments, with tools ranging from fingers and twigs to matchsticks and brushes. The paintings are known for their eye-catching geometric patterns, double-line borders, and symbolic motifs such as peacocks, fish, flowers, and deities like Lord Krishna, Goddess Durga, and Sita and Ram from the Ramayana.

Madhubani paintings are traditionally done on walls and floors of homes, especially during festivals, weddings, and other cultural rituals. However, they have since expanded to canvases, paper, and cloth, making them popular in contemporary art circles. The style is not just an artistic expression but also a reflection of the cultural heritage and storytelling tradition of the Mithila region, often used to convey social, historical, and religious narratives.

MYTHOLOGICAL ORIGIN

According to legend, Madhubani painting originated during the time of the Ramayana. It is said that King Janaka of Mithila commissioned artists to create elaborate paintings to celebrate the wedding of his daughter, Sita, to Lord Rama. These paintings were intended to capture the joyous occasion and were done on the walls of the king’s palace. This tradition of decorating walls with paintings during significant events is believed to have been passed down through generations.

THEMES AND SUBJECTS

The themes for the paintings differ depending on the function or the event that they are painted for. However, the central theme remains love and fertility. All deities of the hindu pantheon and the rural local traditions can be found in the art.

Some of the favoured subjects are – bride surrounded by fishes and other auspicious symbols, bridegroom wearing his nuptial crown, hunting and ploughing scenes, trees, animals, etc.

A special chamber called Kohbar is made during the wedding ceremonies. At times even the floor would be painted, serving purpose similar to that of Alpana from Bengal. According to Mildred Archer:

The subject matter of these paintings can be divided into two types. There are firstly the gods who bring their blessings to the bridal pair – Shiva and Kali and Ganesh. To these are sometimes added the figures of bride and bridegroom and their attendants. In the second place are various symbols of prosperity – elephants, fish, parrots, turtles, the sun and moon, a bamboo tree and a great circular lotus flower. These symbols will, it is hoped, bring good fortune to the young couple and bless them with children.

Traditionally the colours were prepared by the women themselves. Burnt jawar or kajal was used for black; turmeric or chuna mixed with milk from banyan tree for yellow; pailash flower for orange; kusum flower for red; bilva leaf for green. However today the readymade colours from bazaars are used. This has led to a richer and wider palette.

The colours are governed by the five basic elements of life – earth, water, fire, sky, and air. These are denoted by various shades; earth by yellow, water by white, fire by red, sky by blue and air by black. These elements are also explained using three basic forms – triangle, circle and square. A triangle that has its tip towards the sky denotes fire and the one with its tip downwards depict water. Square depicts the earth. The circumference of the circle is used to denote air, while the inner portion depicts sky. Sky and air, fire and water are inter-related. All these forms emerge from a bindu, which represents Shiva and Shakti. A mishra bindu is formed when the formless Shiva visualises his form in Shakti.

The wall paintings are executed in three walls of the houses:

• Gosai ghar or room of the family deity

• Kohbar ghar or room of the newly wed couples

• Verandah outside the Kohbar ghar, used as a room for visitors

STYLES

Mithila art has five distinctive styles:

•Bharni

•Katchni

•Tantrik

•Godna

•Kohbar

In the 1960s, Bharni and Tantrik styles of Madhubani art were predominantly created by Brahmin women in India and Nepal, focusing on religious themes and depictions of gods and goddesses. Artists from other castes incorporated elements from their daily lives, local legends like the story of Raja Shailesh, and various symbols into their paintings. In contemporary times, Madhubani art has evolved into a global art form, transcending caste distinctions. Artists now freely work across all five styles, and Mithila art has gained international recognition. Khobar style, also known as puren is traditionally painted on the wall of a Mithila wedding chamber, where a bride and groom spend their first night together.They most often depict circular motifs made up on feminized faces, and lines drawn in red and black ink. There are both Brahman and Kayastha versions of the Khobar style.

TECHNIQUES AND MATERIALS

The following are the tools and raw materials used for Madhubani Painting:

* Handmade Paper or Canvas Cloth: It is the basic material used for painting.

* Pencil: It is used to draw a rough outline for the painting.

* Nib Pen: It is used to dip into black acrylic colour and sketch on the outline drawn by the pencil.

* Acrylic Colours: It is used to paint on handmade paper or canvas cloth.

* Paintbrush: It is used to paint with different colours over the sketch.

* Paint Pallet: It is used to mix paints to a required density for painting.

* Cloth Piece: It is used to wipe extra colour from the brush.

Making Process Of Madhubani Paintings

The process of creating Madhubani paintings involves several steps. First, the canvas is coated with cow dung and clay. It is done as the cow dung protects the paintings from insects. 

The artist then sketches the design using a bamboo stick and natural colors made from plants and minerals. 

Next, the artist fills in the details using a neem tree twig brush, applying colors in layers from light to dark. Once the coloring is complete, the painting is left to dry before outlining with black soot and cow dung to highlight intricate patterns and colors.

The process is time-consuming and requires skill and patience, but the result is a stunning piece of art that embodies India’s cultural heritage. The finished painting is then framed and ready for display or sale.

CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE

Madhubani Painting serves as a cultural identity for Maithili women, preserving their history and traditions through visual storytelling. It acts as a medium for narrating tales, myths, and legends while richly incorporating symbolism and folklore. Many paintings are rooted in religious and spiritual expression, depicting scenes from Hindu epics and mythology. Moreover, Madhubani Painting has become a source of economic empowerment for rural women in Bihar, providing them with livelihood opportunities.

REVIVAL OF MADHUBANI PAINTING

Government Initiatives: The Indian government and various state agencies have played a crucial role in reviving Madhubani painting. Programs aimed at promoting traditional arts have provided training, resources, and platforms for artists to showcase their work. The National

Handicrafts and Handlooms Museum, as well as state-run emporiums, have also been instrumental in this revival.

NGOs and Cooperatives: Various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and cooperatives have worked to empower rural women artists, who are the primary practitioners of this art form. These organizations have helped artists gain access to markets, improve their techniques, and receive fair compensation for their work. Notable examples include the Mithila Art Institute and the Ethnic Arts Foundation.

Global Exposure: International exhibitions and collaborations have brought Madhubani painting to a global audience. Artists have participated in cultural exchange programs and exhibitions in countries like Japan, the USA, and France, helping to increase the visibility and appreciation of the art form.

Educational Efforts: Workshops, art schools, and online platforms have emerged to teach Madhubani painting techniques to younger generations and enthusiasts. These efforts ensure the continuity of the tradition by attracting new artists and preserving the knowledge of the craft.

COMMERCIALIZATION OF MADHUBANI PAINTING

Market Expansion: Madhubani paintings have transitioned from being primarily wall paintings to being featured on various commercial products. Today, they adorn items such as textiles, home decor, stationery, and fashion accessories. This diversification has broadened the market appeal of the art form.

E-commerce Platforms: The advent of e-commerce has significantly contributed to the commercialization of Madhubani paintings. Online platforms like Amazon, Etsy, and specialized art websites allow artists and sellers to reach a global customer base. This has democratized access to Madhubani art and created new revenue streams for artists.

Corporate Collaborations: Some corporate brands have incorporated Madhubani designs into their products as part of their branding or corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. For example, Madhubani patterns have been used in packaging designs, promotional materials, and limited edition product lines.

Intellectual Property and Branding: As Madhubani art gains popularity, there has been an increased focus on protecting the intellectual property rights of artists. Efforts are being made to ensure that artists receive recognition and financial benefits from their work, especially in the face of mass production and imitation.

Tourism and Cultural Heritage: Madhubani painting has become a key attraction in cultural tourism. Visitors to the Mithila region often purchase Madhubani paintings as souvenirs, and workshops are organized for tourists to learn the art form. This has added a new dimension to the local economy, integrating art with tourism.

CHALLENGES AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS

While the revival and commercialization of Madhubani painting have brought numerous benefits, challenges remain. Issues such as the commodification of art, the need for authentic representation, and ensuring fair compensation for artists are ongoing concerns. Additionally, as the market for Madhubani art grows, there is a risk of diluting the traditional aspects of the craft.

To sustain and further the growth of Madhubani painting, continued efforts in education, market access, and cultural preservation are essential. Balancing commercial interests with the integrity of the art form will be crucial in ensuring that Madhubani painting remains a vibrant and respected tradition.

Modernisation of Madhubani Paintings

Madhubani paintings have undergone several changes in the modern era:

Along with traditional themes, Madhubani artists have started including modern themes. This includes nature, still-life, flora-fauna, social issues, etc, in their paintings. The theme base has widened.

Artists are now experimenting with new forms and compositions in their paintings. Experimentation has increased in modern Madhubani art.

Artists have started using new synthetic and commercial colors instead of traditional organic colors. The palette has expanded.

Artists are adopting new techniques like the use of brushes for painting. Traditional techniques included thumb painting and pen painting. Techniques have diversified.

Artists have moved beyond the traditional flat two-dimensional style. They have started creating three-dimensional and sculptural forms of Madhubani art.

Each Madhubani artist has developed a distinct style of their own. 

Madhubani art has reached a wider audience, and more artists are taking it up as a profession. Its reach has increased.

Economic impact

1. Income Generation for Artists

Employment Opportunities: Madhubani painting has become a primary source of income for many artists, especially women, in rural areas of Bihar. Traditionally, these artists created Madhubani paintings for their homes and communities, but with commercialization, they now sell their work in national and international markets. This shift has provided a steady income stream, helping to lift families out of poverty.

Direct Sales and Commissions: Artists can sell their paintings directly at fairs, exhibitions, and through online platforms. Some artists also receive commissions for creating custom pieces, allowing them to charge higher prices and earn more.

2. Creation of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

Artisan Cooperatives: The formation of artist cooperatives has allowed Madhubani painters to collaborate, share resources, and access larger markets. These cooperatives have not only enhanced the bargaining power of individual artists but have also created a structured environment for large-scale production and distribution.

Entrepreneurship: Some artists and entrepreneurs have established small businesses that focus on producing and selling Madhubani art on various products such as textiles, home décor items, and fashion accessories. These businesses contribute to the local economy and create additional employment opportunities.

3. Export Potential and Global Reach

International Markets: Madhubani paintings have gained popularity in international markets, especially in countries like the USA, Japan, and Europe. Exporting these artworks and related products brings foreign exchange to the region, contributing to the broader economic development of Bihar.

Online Sales: E-commerce platforms have played a crucial role in expanding the global reach of Madhubani paintings. By selling online, artists can access a worldwide customer base, leading to increased sales and higher income.

4. Tourism and Cultural Economy

Cultural Tourism: Madhubani art has become a key attraction for tourists visiting the Mithila region. Tourists often purchase Madhubani paintings as souvenirs, and some even participate in workshops to learn the art form. This influx of tourism boosts the local economy by generating income for artists, as well as for local businesses like hotels, restaurants, and tour operators.

Government and NGO Support: Various government schemes and NGO initiatives have promoted Madhubani art as part of cultural tourism. These efforts include organizing art fairs, exhibitions, and cultural events, which draw visitors and create additional revenue streams for the region.

5. Social Impact and Economic Empowerment

Women’s Empowerment: Madhubani painting has been a powerful tool for economic empowerment, particularly for women in rural areas. By providing a source of income, it has enabled women to contribute financially to their households, gain financial independence, and improve their social status.

Skill Development: The commercialization of Madhubani painting has led to the establishment of training programs that teach the art form to younger generations. These programs not only preserve the tradition but 

also equip participants with marketable skills that can lead to employment opportunities.