Peacock and Deer in Khovar by Manikchand Mahto

In Manikchand Mahto’s traditional Khovar art, the canvas breathes life into a serene tableau of nature’s harmony. Amidst rustic hues and intricate patterns, a gentle deer stands alongside her fawn, embodying maternal warmth and protection. Their graceful forms evoke a sense of tranquility, inviting viewers into a world of tender familial bonds. Beside them, a majestic peacock unfurls its vibrant feathers, a symbol of beauty and elegance. Each stroke reverberates with cultural reverence, echoing the artist’s reverence for nature’s majesty. Through Mahto’s skilled hands, the canvas becomes a window into a timeless landscape where wildlife thrives in peaceful coexistence.
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.