Madhubani or Mithila Painting is a style of Indian painting practiced in Mithila region of Indian subcontinent created by tools like twigs, brushes, nib pens and match sticks including fingers, using natural dyes and pigments. It is characterized by eye-catching geometrical patterns filled with bright colours and contrasts.

Madhubani art has five distinctive styles: Bharni, Kachni, Tantrik, Godna and Kohbar. Mithila paintings are an expression of a woman’s joys, sorrows, her stories, beliefs, songs and routine. The art derives its name from the village Madhubani – “the forest of honey” in Bihar where the tradition of decorating walls and floors of homes and important locations in the village were a norm since ancient times. The art form replicates the intricate relationship between humans and nature.

Legend says that King Janaka ordered for decoration of Mithila for his daughter Mithili’s marriage when the art form was used to depict life and nature and good luck for couple. Madhubani painting is a symbolic of India’s ancient mythology, rich culture and a tribute to Mother Nature.

This is an exquisite Zari craft from Agra made from silk and cotton mixed with gold, silver or copper. Zari work is typically woven on cloth or embroidered into borders. Typically, zari is of two types – real metallic zari with gold or metals and imitation zari.

Traditionally, the art of Zari has been associated with the Aristocratic and Royal Persona in India. Slowly, zari work found its way into bridal attires. Zari clutches, handbags are essentially worn during very special occasions such as weddings, and festivals. But, zari didn’t limit itself into attires and accessories. The art has been used to create handicrafts and paintings which bring a lavish outlook to every space decorated by them.

The metal in Zari weaves react to the atmospheric air and looks dull & old. To maintain its shine, the best thing is to wrap them in soft cotton or a muslin dhoti.