Flowers and Birds in Khovar by Manikchand Mahto

ManikChand Mahto’s Khovar art encapsulates the essence of nature with meticulous strokes of black paint on a white canvas. Within this monochromatic realm, vibrant flowers bloom alongside graceful birds, each element intricately intertwined with its habitat. Flowers, depicted with delicate petals and intricate details, evoke a sense of beauty and tranquility, while birds soar gracefully, their forms suggesting freedom and harmony within their environment. Through this traditional art form, Mahto celebrates the coexistence of flora and fauna, capturing the timeless beauty of nature’s balance in a mesmerizing tableau of black and white.
Khovar painting, a cherished tradition among indigenous and artisan communities in the Hazaribagh region of Jharkhand, Eastern India, adorns nuptial chambers with its vibrant hues. Serving as a hallmark of the wedding season commencing in January and stretching until the onset of the monsoon in June, Khovar paintings breathe life into the ambiance. The term “Khovar” finds its roots in the local dialect, where “kho” signifies chamber or cave, while “var” represents a married couple. Thus, these intricate murals not only embellish the space but also symbolize the union of two souls embarking on their journey together.