In the Mithila area surrounding Madhubani in north Bihar, women make wall depictions to celebrate seasonal festivities and rites of passage from birth to death. For instance: Sathhudi marks the seventh and ninth month of pregnancy, chatiyarpuja, the sixth day after the birth of a child and akshararambh, the child’s entry into the world of learning. Dearly loved designs are recorded in sketchbooks and passed on from one generation to the next. Amongst other motifs, local flora and fauna are popular depictions and each element holds a deeper, symbolic value.

In the 1960s, due to a severe drought in the region, women will be coaxed to transfer their art onto paper. This will allow Madhubani painting to proliferate and gain world recognition.