MADHUBANI AND GOND PAINTINGS

Madhubani art, also known as Mithila art, is a painting style that originated in the Mithila region, which includes the Indian states of Bihar and West Bengal, as well as sections of southern Nepal. 

Gond art, also known as Gond painting, is a type of folk art practiced by the Gonds, one of India's major tribal communities.



Last Updated on 30th May, 2025
3 minutes, 21 seconds

Description

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PC: Sustainable Travel

Context

Artists from Madhubani and Gond art met with President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan as part of the Artists-in-Residence Programme- Kala Utsav.

Madhubani Painting

What is Madhubani Painting?

Madhubani painting, also known as Mithila art, originates from Bihar, India. Traditionally done by women on walls and floors, it features intricate patterns, bold outlines, and natural colors. Common themes include mythology, nature, and social events, symbolizing rural life and feminine creativity.

Region:

Originates from the Mithila region of Bihar; also referred to as Mithila painting.

About Madhubani Painting

Art Form

A folk-art form traditionally created by women on walls and floors of huts during auspicious occasions.

Modern Practice

Now practiced on cloth, canvas, and handmade paper.

Key Features

- Natural Materials: Plant-based pigments, cow dung-treated paper, bamboo pens

- Bold Outlines: Black lines from cow dung & charcoal, filled with vibrant natural colors

Themes

- Religious: Hindu deities like Radha-Krishna, Shiva, Saraswati, etc.

- Social: Village life, weddings, festivals

- Nature: Birds, animals, trees (Tulsi, Banyan), sun, moon

Cultural Identity

Symbol of female creativity and rural tradition, passed down through generations.

Gond Painting

What is Gond Painting?

Gond painting is a tribal art form from Madhya Pradesh, created by the Gond tribe. It uses vibrant colors, dots, and lines to depict folklore, animals, and nature. These paintings reflect the tribe’s spiritual connection with nature and are traditionally done on walls, now also on paper and canvas.

Region:

It originated among the Gond tribe in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.

About Gond Painting

Art Form

Tribal art form with roots in oral storytelling and ritualistic practices. Initially drawn on walls of homes to depict folk tales and nature.

Key Features

- Mythical Narratives: Depicts divine stories, village folklore, and animist beliefs.

- Pattern Work: Uses fine dots and lines to fill motifs and create rhythm.

- Nature Connection: Shows harmony between humans, flora, and fauna.

- Colour Use: Bright, bold colors and imaginative compositions.

Global Reach

Gained international recognition through works like “The Night Life of Trees” by Tara Books.


Source: PIB

Practice Question:

Q) Which of the following statements with reference to Gond Paintings is/are incorrect?

a. Gond painting is a famous folk art of Maharshtra.

b. The Gond painters use natural colors only.

  1. a only
  2. b only
  3. both a and b
  4. neither a nor b

Correct Answer: 3

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