Madhubani Art

Book Details:

• Publisher: Niyogi Books

• Author: Bharti Dayal

• Language: English

• Binding: Paperback

• Edition: First Edition

• ISBN: 9789385285080

• Pages: 112

• Dimensions: 9.6 x 8.3 x 0.4 inches

About the Book:

Madhubani Art by Bharti Dayal explores the rich heritage and evolving tradition of Madhubani art, which has its origins in the ancient period of the Ramayana. According to the tradition, the inhabitants of the town of Madhubani decorated their homes with elaborate wall paintings and murals for the wedding of Lord Rama and Sita.

This art form is rooted in the philosophy of dualism, often depicting divine deities, the sun and moon, flora, fauna, and elements from Hinduism, Buddhism, Islamic Sufism, and tantric symbolism. Madhubani art was not just a cultural expression but a significant social activity for the women of Bihar, providing them a respite from their daily chores while creating beautiful, meaningful art.

The book highlights how this age-old tradition has evolved over time. Today, Madhubani artists have shifted from using natural dyes and pigments to working with brushes and acrylic paints. They now create art on paper, cloth, canvas, and wood in addition to their traditional medium of walls and floors. The contents of the book include a foreword by H.E.M.S. Puri, Ambassador of India in Belgium, and a preface by Martin Gurvich, with contributions from Sushma K Bahl. It explores the art forms surrounding deities such as Krishna, Shiva, Ganesha, and Devi, and the representation of nature, all within the context of the Mahabharata.

Through this book, Dayal takes the reader on a journey into the heart of the Madhubani tradition, celebrating its beauty, cultural significance, and the enduring spirit of its makers.