Art and Handicraft in Bihar

Bihar handicrafts feature an extremely rich tradition of artistry and innovation. The handicrafts of Bihar are appreciated and adored all over the world because of their great aesthetic value and their adherence to tradition. The unique charm of Bihar handicrafts are felt by everyone around the world.

Bihar handicrafts prominently feature stoneworks. These stoneworks are produced in and around the Gaya region of Bihar, around the important sites of the Buddhist history. They make wonderful statuettes of Budhha, Ganesha and other traditional icons. The stone images are carved with supreme mastery and are the crowning glories of Bihar handicrafts. Black stone works making utensils and tableware are also extremely popular for ritualistic and religious purposes.

Bangle making around Muzaffarpur is another important part of handicrafts in Bihar. They are globally known for their tender beauty and are a perpetual favorite among the women of India because of their brightness and color. A note must be taken of the wonderful Sikki craft in Bihar's handicrafts traditions. These exquisite objects are hand-woven by women out of sikki grass. Then the grass are dried and sometimes died for finish. What results are baskets and and other utility objects of great charm. Bamboo crafts and leather crafts also form an important part of Bihar handicrafts.

Madhubani is famous for its wonderful paintings. They hold their own as a significant form of folk art in the global art market. The famous painters of Madhubani often give finishes to the carpets made in Danapur and together contribute to the formation of a great handicrafts tradition.

Madhubani Painting

Named after the village where it originated, Madhubani paintings have spread the name of Bihar the world over. Although it is believed to be prevalent from the time of Ramayana, it acquired the deserved recognition only after 1950s. Earlier the paintings were drawn on mud plastered walls during important festivals and personal ceremonies. For commercial purposes, today they are made on handmade paper, canvas and different types of clothes. Images of Gods and Goddesses, natural subjects like Sun, Moon, Tulasi Plant, birds, animals and scened of wedding or other celebrations are the main themes of the painting. Even after so many years the method of production has not changed a bit. A bamboo sticks wrapped around with cotton is used as the paintbrush and colors used are all obtained from nature. For example, powdered rice is used as white color, red color comes from red sandalwood or kusam flower juice, yellow from turmeric.

Bangle Making

The best works of bangle making can be seen in the city of Muzaffarpur which is considered to be the center for cottage industries. Bangles are an inseparable part of Indian customs and an integral part of make up kit of Indian women. The raw material is for bangle works is obtained from the forest nearby. The artisans use light fire to craft the delicate glasses into circular shape. The artisans go by the market demand and their imagination to give them the most fashionable and contemporary designs. One can buy them from many stores or directly from the homes of the artisans.

Stone Work

In its peak during the Mauryan period, stone and architecture works became the symbol of the dynasty. One can see the best of that period in cities like Gaya, Nalanda, and Patna. Apart from monasteries and Stupas, magnificent statues of Lord Buddha were created. Today, the most important place for stone works is Patharkatti in Gaya district. It has plenty of blue black pot stone which are cheap and are used for making statues, images and household articles like the pestle and grinders. It is also among the places in India where architecture works of fountains and tables are done.

Khatwa

Khatwa is the name given to appliqué works in Bihar. Khatwa is about designing by cutting of one fabric and stitching the pieces to another fabric. Khatwa is mainly used to create designer tents, canopies, shamianas and much more. Making of such tents involves work by both men and women. While cutting of clothes is done by men, women use their expertise in stitching part. Khatwa is also used in designing women garments as well. This is where the real talent of Bihar people is seen in the work. The designs created are more sharp, intricate and highly appealing. Most of the garments shop sell these highly artistic clothes.

People in some villages of Bihar are involved only in art works and it is their main source of income. Since the same skills are passed down to generations, the expertise and innovations are immaculate. So when you are visiting Bihar, don't forget to buy yourself some really great paintings and some exquisite clothes.