(mithila and culture) FIG-- THREAD CEROMONY IN MITHILA
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The history of Mithila does not center round Violent feats of arms but round Courts engrossed in the luxurious enjoyment of literature and learning. But while Mithila's fame does not rest on heroic deeds it must be duly honored as the house where the enlightened and learned might always find a generous, peace and safety. Before 1000B.C,it was the great center of Hindu learning from the sixth to third century before Christ,Vaishali,a town in its border was a buddhist stronghold and in fifth century after the sun of Buddhism had set Mithila again sprang into notice as the home of Hindu enlightment.When eventually the first flood of Muslman invasion coming down the Ganges,did spread Bihar,it subsided,leaving Mithila with Hindu Kings still holding courts where poetry and learning were alone honored.
-Stevence Moor.


MITHILA AND BIHAR
Bihar has a rich cultural heritage. The predominant themes are from the myths and legends of Hinduism. The Hindu deities, Lord Rama and His consort, Seeta, and Lord Shiva and His consort, Parvati, form the main theme of folk paintings. Bihar, a land of many Buddhist Monasteries is also known as 'The Land of Buddha'.
The beautiful stories of the ancient times are depicted in the exquisite handicrafts of Bihar.
Painting
Madhubani Painting
One of the art forms of Bihar, the Madhubani School of Painting, has lately received much attention and poularity. Madhubani, in the heart of the Mithila region, had a rich tradition of wall paintings done by the village women with vegetable dyes. An artist encouraged them to try their wall paintings on paper and since then Mithila paintings gained ground. These line paintings in primary colors normally depict village scenes, human and animal forms, gods and goddesses.