Kohbar Painting, Meaning, Theme, Significance, Art Style

Kohbar Painting is a traditional wedding art form from Bihar, where “Kohbar” means the marriage chamber. Its theme focuses on love, fertility, prosperity, and marital harmony, using symbols like lotus, fish, bamboo, and the Sun-Moon to bless the couple. The art style includes bright natural colors, detailed line work, and decorative patterns, and it is an important part of Madhubani painting tradition.

Kohbar Painting

• • Origin: Kohbar Painting is a traditional folk art form from the Mithila region of Bihar, especially practiced in districts like Madhubani.
  • Meaning of ‘Kohbar’: The word Kohbar means “marriage chamber” where wedding rituals are performed.
  • Occasion: It is mainly created during Hindu wedding ceremonies to bless the newly married couple.
  • Theme: The paintings symbolize love, fertility, prosperity, and marital harmony.
  • Religious Significance: Images of Hindu deities like Lord Rama and Sita are commonly depicted to represent ideal marriage.

Also Read: Pahari Painting

• Common Symbols Used:

• • • Lotus (symbol of purity and fertility)
    • Bamboo grove (symbol of lineage and growth)
    • Fish (good luck and fertility)
    • Sun and Moon (eternal bond)
    • Parrot (love and passion)

• Art Style:

• • Bright natural colors are used.
  • Detailed line work with geometric patterns.
  • Traditionally painted on walls using natural dyes and pigments.
• Artists: Traditionally made by women of the household as part of wedding rituals.
• Connection with Madhubani Art: Kohbar Painting is a significant part of Madhubani painting tradition.
• Cultural Importance: It preserves local traditions, rituals, and mythological stories of the Mithila region.
• Modern Adaptation: Today, it is also painted on paper, cloth, and canvas for commercial and decorative purposes.

Also Read: Kangra Painting

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