10 Most Unique Art Forms of Bihar

Bihar, the land of great ancient rulers and the land of enlightenment, knowledge has hidden unique talents and secrets that the outside world is willing to know. Bihar has a rich cultural background and has always been the center of attraction for the rulers. The greatest rulers like Chandragupta, the great Ashoka, the most peaceful and non-violent Buddha, and many more have their belongingness with the city and the culture it inherits.

The two main religions of India i.e. Buddhism and Jainism have evolved from Bihar. Thus, it inherits rich art and culture which is now being more popularized throughout the world. With the introduction of modern technologies, it becomes easier to restore ancient arts and crafts throughout the generations and also it helps to flourish trade across countries.

The various art forms such as grass clothes, metal wares, rock painting, lacquers, wooden structures, and potteries are the intrinsic beauties of Bihar that make it unique and different from the others. They are initially manufactured locally but as their demands increased, their production graphs went higher and now all these are flourishing in the international markets as well. These art forms are exhibited in different fairs as well to get more customers and to reach out to more people like at the International Trade Fair (Delhi), Delhi haat, etc.

The other important artwork is bangle-making and stone work which are available at reasonable prices in the markets, making it affordable for people to get it and have the essence of the beauty of Bihar. It somehow helps to create employment for local people and serves to influence the economy of the country.

Different Art Forms of Bihar

1. Madhubani Art or Paintings

It was first observed in the Mithila region of Bihar, mostly done by the women of the region. As the name suggests, it has its roots from the time of Ramayana, when Mata Sita used to be the princess of Mithila. 

This art depicts nature and especially the rituals and festivals of the Hindu religion. It is a kind of folk art that shows the relationship of us (human beings) with nature and pays gratitude towards nature by using it in the art form. It also shows the Hindu deities and cults. Initially, it used to be done on the clothes or a piece of paper but now it can be visible on the walls of the Bihar as well. It is not only an art of Bihar but also representing India as a whole on an international level.

2. Pottery Works

Pottery work in Bihar has its roots back from the Muaryan and Gupta dynasties when utensils and earthen pots made up of clay ruled the markets. The archaeological survey in the regions of Nalanda and Rajgir has proven its existence in ancient India.

These beautiful artworks are immensely available in the markets of Patna- the capital of Bihar. Even the statues and idols of gods and goddesses made up of clay have populated the markets of Patna. Patna is famous for such works.

3. Tikuli Art

The tikuli crafts are done by the melting of broken glass. First, the craftsmen melt the glass and then give it a shape and designs to depict different figures and forms. Patna, Calcutta, and Banaras are the chief market source for the “tikuli work”. The manufacturing is mostly done in the regions of Patna and Harihans.

4. Brass Works

Brassworks have evidence from the pre-historic age of civilization. It later continued during the era of great rulers of Bihar and reached its peak in the market during the Mauryan, Palas, and Gupta dynasties. It has been proven through various archaeological surveys especially in the regions of Nalanda and Rajgrah (which have historical importance) that the source of brass works has its roots from the land of Bihar.

The craftsmen are so skillful in making images of gods and goddesses of brass, utensils, iron pitchers, and other household items with the brass, generating more and more employment.

 

5. Zari Works 

This artwork mostly can be seen on sarees, curtains, kurtas, covers, blouses,  etc. The artists use the threads and very artistically and smoothly create the designs and embroidery through the process of weaving. It is originally a man-made design, there is no use of machines if it’s pure zari work. It is a great source of livelihood for many families.

6. Wood Carvings

Presently Patna is famous for this special art but it has been preserved since Mauryan times. Houses were made of wood, doors, and windows were carved out from the woods, and this was the best source of income and livelihood for the guilds.

The carving is done by man force with the use of paper cutters, wall plaques, pen cutters, etc. This ancient art form is converted into a means of livelihood for the present-day craftsmen.

7. Patna Kalam

When Mughal painting flourished during the early 18th to mid-20th century, it influenced most of the Indian schools of arts and painting to create something similar but with a different concept. Patna Kalam painting is one of the examples of such influence, which is a kind of tendril or offshoot of Mughal paintings.

Unlike the Mughals, the painters used to depict the daily lives of the city, culture, bazaars, rulers, local festivals, and ceremonies.

8. Jewellery

Jewellery has had its importance since the ancient era. Women used to carry jewelry to enhance their looks. Taking the opportunity of situations, the artists or goldsmiths started working over their talent and became very skillful jewelers. 

They used to make different ornaments and designs out of gold and silver and it became popular in Bihar. Especially, the kundan work on silver jewelry is highly appreciated by consumers.

9. Kasida Work

It the one of the most embroidery works of Bihar, with Patna as its center. It is done with fine threads especially gold or silver and needles on the clothes, stoles, sarees, veils, covers, etc.

It follows a geometric pattern having the motifs of birds, leaves, flowers, and many more, which makes it special and different in its own way.

10. Lacquer Works

Lacquer works of Bihar are widely famous as it has a rich history. The regions of Muzzafarpur, Darbhanga, and Madhubani are famous for this work, especially the lacs-bangles. It is mostly done on the tables, bowls, and glasses to give them a shiny touch.

It began in the ancient time on woodwork, later it transferred to the contemporary period because of its texture, luster, and demands among people.

These are the most unique art forms that originated, found, and continued in the different regions of Bihar. Bihar has always restored its ancient culture and art forms. The archeological surveys have proven their existence in Bihar from years ago. These are not only on the list, there are more that still exist in Bihar as unique art and works like Bamboo work, Textile printing, Sikkii work, Rock paintings, wooden works, and many more.

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Written by - Archi Goldi