Peahens in Khovar by Manikchand Mahto

In ManikChand Mahto’s rendition of traditional Khovar art, the canvas comes alive with intricate strokes of black paint. Against a stark white background, two graceful peahens elegantly flank a verdant plant, their plumage rendered in exquisite detail. Each feather seems to dance upon the canvas, captured in the timeless elegance of Khovar’s monochromatic palette. Mahto’s mastery is evident in the delicate balance between realism and abstraction, as the birds appear both lifelike and imbued with symbolic significance. Through the simplicity of black and white, this piece invites viewers into a world where nature’s beauty and cultural heritage intertwine harmoniously.
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.