Madhubani Painting - The Color Significance of a Hindu Wedding Scene

Importance of Colors

Colors are integral to our being, as we associate them with the states of our mind &/or body. Interestingly, these associations are more or less universally acknowledged. Each color is ascribed unique traits in the realms of positive and negative. Despite our different backgrounds, we agree with an uncanny like-mindedness on the language of colors!

Colors in Art

If we explore deeper, the core concept of colors lies in the vibrant spectrums of nature. Human beings simulated these colors to create objects for pleasing the senses. Different cultures adopted and depicted colors according to their understanding. In effect, one color had different proposition in different cultures & religions. Hinduism also attaches a certain connotation to different colors and so do most of the Indian art forms. The vivid & bright colors of Madhubani Paintings impart the emotional levels beyond the sketching.

Colors of Hinduism & Madhubani

The 100% eco-friendly art form Madhubani or Mithila Painting of Bihar (Eastern Indian state) belongs to the Mithila region. Different objects (twigs, brushes, fingers, & matchsticks) from the daily life are used to color the patterns. The hues used are 100% organic dyes, inks, & pigments. Rice paste is used to make these paintings and the canvas usually is paper or cloth.

The History of Madhubani

Madhubani Painting is believed to have originated in the age of Ramayana. Sita, the daughter of Mithila King Janak, was to be wedded to Lord Rama. The King ordered the women of his kingdom to paint designs on the walls and floors of their homes. The paintings done in bright, vibrant colors were themed to depict happiness, life, birth, beauty, peace, and all the elements of life worth celebrating! That was the joyful onset of Madhubani Painting.

The Colors of Madhubani

It is simply astounding how through vivid colors, Madhubani paintings portray a wide range of activities, personalities, or monochrome patterns. The subjects of these art forms include but are not limited to the scenes from simple domestic chores, lavish celebrations; figures of mere mortals, animals, birds, or Gods; nature; and/or floral or geometric patterns. The hues used radiate positivity and high aesthetics to invariably please the creative senses.

Wedding Scene - The Symbolism

The most popular Madhubani subject is the Garland ceremony of a Hindu wedding in front of a tree. While the Jai Mala or the garland exchange symbolizes union and continuity, the tree denotes life and vitality. Therefore, all the elements seem to be blessing the couple.

Wedding Scene - The Color Symbolism

Though we can find almost all possible colors in the painting, Green dominates at the first glance. Leaves & dresses of the bride & the groom are hued in it. Symbolizing nature, Green signifies freshness, health, peace, renewal, spring, fertility, and good luck. The other colors that catch the eye are Red, Yellow, and Brown. Red stands for passion, power, energy, & strength; yellow symbolizes sunshine, joy, optimism, & hope; while brown is for earth, stability, hearth, home, endurance, and simplicity. In effect, the wedding scene of a Madhubani Painting beautifully depicts hopes, wishes, and blessings. Precisely what King Janak would have wanted for his daughter Sita, or any parent wishes for his/her child!

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