Also known as Mithila paintings, this art originated in villages around Madhubani in Bihar and extends into Nepal’s Terai region. Traditionally practiced by women, themes are largely religious, depicting Hindu deities such as Krishna, Rama, Durga, Lakshmi and Shiva.
Paintings are flat, two-dimensional with no shading, characterised by bold colours, double-line borders, ornate floral designs and exaggerated facial features. Originally painted on walls using rice paste and vegetable colours, the medium later shifted to paper and canvas. The art received national recognition in 1970 and has GI status.