Azmat and his student Shweta promoting Bhojpuri art

Kathmandu, Jun1: Azmat Ali Ansari, an artist, proudly claims himself as the first art teacher from Birgunj.

 He has been in the art field for about three decades, promoting Bhojpuri art and highlighting its distinctiveness compared to the more well-known Mithila painting. Ansari said, “The Bhojpuri art remains largely unknown and he aims to change that concept.”

Currently, Ansari is exhibiting two of his paintings at the National Exhibition of Fine Arts in Kathmandu. One of his artworks portrays three blind saints and explores how they navigate their lives, particularly in urban areas. The other painting depicts the Bhojpuri dance form known as 'Dhakara,' which Ansari claimed was gradually disappearing. 

Through his art, he endeavours to delve into the cultural essence of the Madhes region. Notably, Ansari's student, Shweta Shah, along with two other students, have also put their artworks on display at the exhibition.

 Shah's artwork, titled 'Kohabar,' centres around the age-old Bhojpuri wedding customs, effectively highlighting her exceptional talent and garnering her recognition through a provincial accolade in the folk art genre. According to Ansari, Mithila and Bhojpuri cultures share many similarities, yet Bhojpuri art remains relatively obscure in Nepal. 

He takes the national art exhibition as a platform to introduce and generate awareness about Bhojpuri art, not only to the general public but also to artists of the Madhes region who may be unaware of such opportunities.

Ansari said that he was entirely self-taught, learning the art form through his own efforts.  His passion for art and his desire to inspire others had led him to dream of organising a significant art exhibition in Birgunj in the near future.

 He hoped that such an event would help the people of Madhes recognise the importance of art and inspire the younger generation to pursue their artistic talents. 

While there are many artists in Birgunj, most of them focus on creating and selling paintings without engaging in teaching or exhibitions. Ansari wants to change this by expanding the reach of art in Birgunj and passing on his knowledge to the new generation.

 “This will ultimately contribute to the cultural transformation and appreciation of art in the region,” he added.