Mithila arts empower women painters

By Laxmi Chaudhary,Janakpurdham, Jan. 27: Sunaina Thakur is a popular Mithila artist both in Nepal and abroad. A topic on Mithila art in the class 7 textbook sparked Thakur’s interest in Mithila art. She embraced Mithila art, defying both societal and familial expectations. 

She said, "Had I not defied the norms and delved into Mithila art back then, I would not have the identity that I possess today."

Currently, she employs 15 Mithila artists. After the COVID-19 pandemic, she had to reduce her workforce from 25 to 15 to keep her Mithila painting business afloat. Thakur’s Mithila Art Gallery is located within the Janaki Mandir premises, where she has created a platform to introduce Mithila art to tourists. It has not been easy for Thakur to reach her current position. She faced many challenges along the way. 

Thakur has earned recognition both in Nepal and abroad, receiving more than a dozen awards. She has exhibited her work both domestically and internationally. She has been passionate about Mithila paintings since childhood and aims to promote this art form further. Thakur, a Mithila artist who broke free from social traditions, has used her paintings to address social issues, including violence against women. She has given not only direction to her own life but has also positively impacted the lives of many other women. 

Mithila art is also the primary occupation for Soman, a 33-year-old resident of Janakpurdham Sub-Metropolitan City, Ward No. 12. Soman said that she has successfully established herself as a Mithila painter.  She said everyone knows me as a Mithila artist. That's a great achievement for me.

Soman, who started painting at the age of 12, used to paint with her aunt, mother and other relatives. She has completed her schooling up to class 9 and not only creates paintings but also provides training to others. She has trained more than 40 people in Mithila art. 

Soman shared that her first painting, which was sold for 100 Indian rupees, opened the door to commercialisation. Her paintings are now sold for up to Rs. 40,000. 

Mithila painting is an integral part of Mithila’s identity. The government should take a more active role in promoting this art and encourage the younger generation to learn it. Mithila painting has provided a platform for women to work and has helped them step out of the house.