Mahua Tree and Mahua Goddess

Sold byJodhaiya Bai

Description

"Explore the world of Baiga art filled with narratives of tribal lives and nature around them. In this painting, Padmashri winning artist Joadhaiya Bai brings to life the sacred and most important, Mahua tree and along with her Mahua goddess standing under the tree. In Baiga culture mahua tree is considered to be sacred and important as a source of their livelihood, for medicinal purposes, food, liquor and also a shelter to the wild creatures. The deep reverence for this tree is seen through Baiga tribes traditions and rituals where this tree plays an important role. The Mahua tree in this painting is depicted blossomed with yellow flowers,with an animal and birds fluttering around. At the bottom of the tree we see a small green figure with yellow outline ‘The Mahua Devi’ (goddess), a deity worshipped by the Baiga people, a spirit of mahua tree who is symbolically associated with nature, sustenance and fertility. Jodhaiya Bai beautifully depicts this subject through her simple composition.

Why add this painting to your collection ? -Hand-painted by late Padma Shri award winner Jodhaiya Bai Baiga, a renowned Baiga artist who began painting in her forties. Inspired by her homeland’s forests, Lord Shiva, and native motifs like the Mahua tree, her work earned national and international acclaim, including the Padma Shri in 2023. -A minimalistic yet striking composition – The bright, fresh color palette and simple design beautifully capture the Baiga community’s deep connection with nature and their spiritual beliefs. -Measuring 22 x 30 inches, this hand-painted acrylic on paper artwork offers a bold presence, making it ideal as a statement piece for larger walls in homes, offices, or cultural spaces. -Versatile decor appeal – The design blends seamlessly with modern, bohemian, or ethnic interiors, adding warmth and rustic charm. -A thoughtful gift for art lovers – Perfect for collectors of tribal art or as a special gift for housewarmings, festivals, or personal milestones.

Non-cancellable

This product cannot be cancelled once the order is placed. This item is non-returnable.

$ 6,989$ 7,759

In Stock

What is Baiga painting?

Baiga painting is a traditional art form created by the Baiga tribe in central India. It features nature-inspired designs like animals, trees, and geometric patterns, often symbolizing spirituality and harmony with nature. The paintings are made using natural materials such as clay or rice paste and are used in rituals and ceremonies.

What materials are used in the creation of your Baiga paintings?

Baiga paintings are made using white clay, rice paste, and natural pigments from plants and earth. Artists use brushes made from twigs or other natural tools.

How should I care for my Baiga painting?

To care for your Baiga painting: 1. Keep it away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. 2. Store in a dry place to avoid moisture damage. 3. Dust gently with a soft cloth or brush. 4. Frame it to protect it from dirt and damage. 5. Avoid touching the painted surface to keep it clean.

Are the paintings framed or unframed?

Baiga paintings are usually unframed but can be framed for display and protection if desired.

Can I commission a custom Baiga painting?

Yes, you can commission a custom Baiga painting. Many artists are open to creating personalized works based on your preferences, such as specific themes or designs, while still following the traditional style.

Jodhaiya Bai

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 Jodhaiya Bai Baiga, whose life is an inspiration not only to the women of the country but also to every aspiring artist, was one of India’s most respected tribal artists. Honoured with two prestigious awards, Jodhaiya Bai’s life represents an extraordinary journey from a labourer to a recipient of India’s fourth-highest civilian honour.

Jodhaiya Bai Baiga was born in 1938 and lived in the Lorha village of Madhya Pradesh among the Baiga Tribe. Jodhaiya Bai lived in the forest with her tribal community and survived by selling firewood and cow dung. Creating art was a part of the routine in the tribe. However, unlike her fellow tribemates, she radically transformed her life at the age of 69 when she met Ashish Swami, an alumnus of Kala Bhavana, Santiniketan, setting an enduring example that it is never too late to pursue one’s passion. Ashish Swami, who ran a small studio in the nearby village of Lorha, became her mentor and encouraged her to develop her practice as a folk artist, marking the beginning of her historic artistic journey.

From small paintings on paper, she progressed gradually to large canvases. Jodhaiya Bai’s art distinctly exhibits incredible use of colours and is rooted in the forests that surround her village. Many of her paintings are dedicated to Lord Shiva, and she enjoys painting the rituals and legends of the Baiga tribe. One of the elements that frequently appears in her paintings is Bageswar, the tiger god, who protects them and their lands from wild boars and wolves. But the life-giving Mahua tree is the star of several of her creations. Jodhaiya Bai’s art bridges traditional themes with contemporary concerns such as environmental destruction, industrialisation, and ecological loss, all expressed through the visual language of traditional Baiga motifs.

Her paintings have been exhibited in Bhopal, Delhi, Milan and Paris and are part of the prestigious Crites collection. Jodhaiya Bai Baiga’s works have appeared at several auctions and have consistently achieved remarkable results in the art market. Notably, her painting Untitled realised a price of INR 48,00,000 at Pundole’s in March 2025. In recognition of her achievement, she was awarded with Nari Shakti Puraskar in 2020 and the Padma Shri in Arts 2023. Jodhaiya Bai’s extraordinary achievements stand as a living testament to the belief that it is never too late in life to realise one’s potential.

Unique Practice

Paintings featuring the vivid colours and centred around nature, forest ecosystems, and wildlife.

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