Mithila Art Shines Bright: Comprehensive New Book on Madhubani Launched in Delhi
New Delhi, August 17, 2024: In a remarkable celebration of India’s cultural heritage, the long-anticipated book “Mithila Art: A 360 Degree Review” was officially launched today at the prestigious Lalit Kala Academy in New Delhi. This groundbreaking publication marks the first holistic literary work dedicated to Madhubani Art, an indigenous art form that originated in the Mithila region of Bihar and Nepal.
The event drew an impressive gathering of artists, culture enthusiasts, and members of the public, all eager to witness the unveiling of a book that promises to transform the global understanding of this ancient art form. The book is the result of years of dedicated research and collaboration by a distinguished international team of editors: Ms. Binita Malik from Mithilangan in New Delhi, Dr. Minu Agarwal of CEPT University, and Dr. Laura Zizka from EHL, Switzerland, with contributions from Professor (Dr.) Prashant Das of IIM Ahmedabad.
“Mithila Art: A 360 Degree Review” serves as a vital resource, bridging the gap between traditional art forms and modern cultural studies. It is meticulously crafted to offer both scholarly insights and engaging narratives, making it an essential reference for academics, art lovers, and cultural historians alike. The editors’ collective expertise is woven into the book’s pages, ensuring that it is as intellectually rigorous as it is accessible.
At the launch event, the editors expressed their deep personal connections to the project. Prof. Prashant Das, who hails from the region where Mithila Art was born, shared his motivation for contributing to the book. “My tryst with Mithila Art is deeply personal. Despite its rich history, this art form has been underrepresented in literature. This book aims to fill that gap, offering a comprehensive reference point for art lovers around the world,” he said.
Dr. Minu Agarwal, another key editor, emphasized the book’s role in unveiling the deeper meanings behind Madhubani Art, which often extends beyond its vibrant surface. “If you own a piece of Mithila Art but wonder about its meaning beyond its playful simplicity, this book is for you. It reveals dimensions known to few beyond the inner circles,” she explained.
The book’s design, orchestrated by Shreya Sarda’s Mumbai-based firm DesignFlyover (DFO), is as much a work of art as the content it presents. The design team invested months into transforming each page into a visual masterpiece, ensuring that readers not only gain knowledge but also embark on a rich, sensory journey through the art form.
Esteemed personalities such as Amitabh Kant, former CEO of Niti Aayog, and Chanchal Kumar, Secretary of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region, have contributed forewords to the book, further cementing its importance in the cultural discourse.
Dr. Laura Zizka, reflecting on her experience working on the book, remarked, “In a world filled with 21st-century frenzies, this book brings us back to what is most important—where we began and who we are. Each chapter is a gem filled with heart and insight.”
Ms. Binita Malik echoed these sentiments, highlighting the book’s role in demystifying the unique language and grammar of Madhubani Art. “Every field of work has a special language and a grammar of its own which makes it easy to learn. That is what we have tried to convey through this book,” she said.
Mithila Art: A 360 Degree Review is not just a book; it is an artistic and cultural landmark. Published by Adarsh Books, New Delhi, it is set to become an indispensable resource for anyone interested in understanding Mithila Art. The book not only honors the past but also serves as a beacon for the future of this vibrant cultural tradition, inviting readers worldwide to explore the depth and beauty of Madhubani.
For those eager to delve into this captivating world, the book will be available globally. Readers can secure their copy and embark on a journey of artistic discovery that celebrates one of India’s most cherished cultural heritages.
