Bihar is a treasure house of classical and folk arts that have flourished for centuries. From the world-famous Madhubani paintings of Mithila to the delicate Manjusha patterns of Bhagalpur and the Mughal-inspired strokes of Patna Kalam — each art form carries stories of devotion, folklore, and everyday life.
Bihar’s crafts reflect generations of artistry, patience, and natural materials. From bamboo weaving, sikki grass craft, wood inlay, terracotta, and stone carving — every handmade piece carries a legacy of skill and cultural pride.
Originating in the Mithila region, Madhubani is one of India’s oldest folk art traditions. Women of Mithila created these paintings on walls during festivals, weddings and rituals. Known for natural colors, double borders, intricate patterns and themes from Ramayana, Mahabharata and nature—Madhubani today is globally recognized and GI-tagged.
Tikuli art dates back more than 300 years and originated in Patna. Created using hardboard, enamel paint and lacquer, it features fine detailing and a mirror-like shine. Tikuli motifs often depict festivals, women, village life and mythology. Today it is used in home décor, coasters, plates and jewellery boxes.
Manjusha painting from Bhagalpur is based on the epic folklore of Bihula and the Snake Goddess. Characterized by pink, yellow and green colors with bold linework, this art has a distinctive box-shaped format. Snakes, floral vines and geometric patterns are signature elements of this traditional craft.
Bihar’s block printing tradition uses hand-engraved wooden blocks dipped in natural dyes. Floral motifs, geometric borders and Madhubani-inspired patterns are commonly printed on sarees, dupattas and home furnishings. Mithila and Bhagalpur remain vibrant centres of hand block printing even today.
Bihar produces premium quality jute crafts, especially in Patna, Gaya and Bhagalpur. Artisans create bags, rugs, wall décor, coasters and utility products. These crafts combine sustainability with traditional weaving techniques, making them popular globally for their natural rustic appeal.
Woodcraft in Bihar, especially from Gaya and Patna, is renowned for carved toys, trays, wall plaques and decorative pieces. Wood inlay—using brass, metal wires and multi-colored wood—is a centuries-old craft that showcases exceptional craftsmanship and detail.
North Bihar is rich in Sikki grass, known for its natural golden color. When dyed and woven, artisans create baskets, figurines, jewelry boxes and decorative craft. Bamboo craft complements it with furniture, trays, toys and utility items—both forming the backbone of Bihar’s eco-friendly traditional crafts.
Terracotta art from Madhubani, Darbhanga and Kishanganj includes diyas, pots, figurines and handcrafted décor. Clay artisans follow traditional firing techniques that produce earthy textures and warm tones. Terracotta continues to be integral in festivals and household decorations.
Gaya’s stone craft uses black chloritic schist to carve bowls, statues and religious sculptures. The craft has deep Buddhist and Jain roots, producing idols of Buddha, Mahavira and intricate temple pieces. Stone pottery from this region is popular among tourists and pilgrims.
Bihar’s miniature paintings, especially from Nalanda and Bodh Gaya, depict Buddhist and Jain stories on palm leaf or handmade paper. These artworks use mineral pigments, plant dyes and gold detailing. Once created for pilgrims, these miniatures are now valuable collectibles worldwide.