Mithila Art: Traditional Handmade Paintings from Nepal

Discover the vibrant world of Mithila Art at Swodeshi. Explore unique handcrafted pieces that celebrate tradition and creativity in every stroke.

Rooted in centuries-old traditions of the Mithila region, Mithila art (also known as Madhubani art) is a unique folk painting style that uses natural colors and bold geometric patterns to depict stories of mythology, nature, and daily life.

Each piece in our Mithila Art collection is hand-painted by skilled local artisans, using eco-friendly materials and age-old techniques passed down through generations. These intricate artworks reflect the soul of Nepalese heritage — from images of Hindu deities to rural life scenes — making them perfect for home décor, cultural gifts, or even spiritual spaces.

At Swodeshi, we proudly offer authentic handmade products that carry cultural depth, aesthetic value, and a touch of timeless elegance.

What is Mithila Art

Mithila art is a traditional form of art practiced in the Mithila region of Nepal and India. It is also known as Madhubani painting. It was first created at Mithila (The birthplace of Goddess Sita). Initially, the art is done by women in the freshly plastered mud and with time, the art is passed down from generation to generation.

Mithila Art is practiced across the Mithila region, which includes parts of northern Bihar (India) and the eastern Terai of Nepal. Mithila art has evolved with time and is now practiced on paper, canvas, fabric, and other mediums. Mithila art has deep significance in Nepali cultural heritage. It reflects religious beliefs, local folklore, and social values of the Maithali community. It is renowned for its bold outline, geometrical patterns, and use of natural colors.

Style of Mithila Art

Traditionally, Mithila Art has 5 styles. All five have different styles, own importance and techniques. The five styles are

•       Bharni
•       Kachni
•       Tantrik
•       Godna
•       Kobhar

Material used in Mithila Art

Mithila art is an ancient form of art. It has evolved with time. Now modern materials are used for painting, but here is the list of traditional materials used in Mithila Art:

1.   Natural dyes and Pigments

•       Black: Burnt rice
•       Yellow: Turmeric
•       Blue: Indigo
•       White: Ground rice paste
•       Green: Leaves and plant extracts

2.   Brushes and Tools

•       Handmade using bamboo sticks with cotton or cloth at the tip
•       Twigs, matchsticks and fingers used for fine detailing

3.   Surfaces

•       Mud walls and Floors

4.   Additives

•       Sometimes added goat’s milk or gum to bind pigments.

Techniques used in Mithila Painting

1.   Double line outlining

•       Main figures are outlined using two parallel lines.
•       Space between lines filled with dots, lined or hatching for decoration

2.   No Empty Space

•       Backgrounds are filled with floral, geometric or symbolic motifs to avoid blank space

3.   Symmetry and Balance

•       Designs are highly symmetrical and balanced

4.   Storytelling through Symbols

•       Every element has meaning: fish for fertility, lotus for purity.

Nowadays, Mithila art has modern adaptations.  The artist used acrylic paints, fabric dyes and readymade brushes. Paintings appear on sarees, home décor and wall art.

Where to Buy Authentic Mithila Art

There are two ways to buy Mithila art

1.   Local store

If you want to buy from a local store, Janakpur is the place for you. Jankapur is the birthplace of Mithila art. Janakpur is still holding its culture and history of Mithila art. It is best to purchase the product from the motherland.

2.   Online store

If you don’t have time to visit the local market, then online is the best option for you. Many pages sell the authentic Mithila art by skilled craftsmen. Here is the list of online stores. 

•       Swodeshi.com
•       Creation Nepal
•       Choicemandu.com

They provide in-country and abroad shipping facilities.

Why Choose Swodeshi for Mithila Art?

• 100% Authentic Handmade Products

• Hand-Painted by Mithila Region Artists

• Natural Colors on Handmade Paper or Canvas

• Cultural and Spiritual Symbolism

• Ideal for Wall Décor, Gifting, and Collectors

Bring home the magic of Mithila — explore Swodeshi’s exclusive Mithila Art collection today!