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Life in the Fisherfolk Community
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Life in the Fisherfolk Community

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Dulari Devi

Padma Shri Dulari Devi belongs to Ranti village in Patna. Married off at a young age, Dulari Devi suffered abuse and loss and later returned to her maternal home. Lacking formal education she helped her family in farming and also worked as a domestic help. It was at one of her employers homes that she saw Madhubani paintings being made and it led to her life changing for good. The employer was none other than the renowned Madhubani artists Mahasundari Devi and Karpoori Devi who saw Dulari’s interest in painting and encouraged her to take it up. And soon Dulariji had mastered the art and started writing her own destiny. Dulari Devi is an expert of the Katchni and Bharni styles of Madhubani. While the former relies on lines and monochrome illustrations the other is made using intricate lines, bold and vibrant colors. Her works tell the stories of her community who are fishermen by profession, village markets, wedding scenes and others. Dulari ji credits her inspiring career to her mentors Mahasundari ji and Karpoori ji. She expresses her gratitude to them for giving her the strength and guidance to do what she does. She is passionate about maintaining the legacy and continuing the tradition of making Madhubani paintings and has been teaching at the Mithila Art Institute for nearly a decade now. Her work doesn't just conform to traditional themes and rituals but also tells her story - the community she belongs to, her life in the village and experiences in life. Dulari ji has received both national and international recognition and has also published an illustrated autobiography "Following My Paint Brush" with Geeta Wolfe in 2011. She continues to be an inspiration for all artists and women and reminds us to keep trying even in the face of adversity. Her story serves as an inspiration to artists and tells them to tell their stories through their art and share their perspective on the world. It is a matter of pride and honour for us to have her as part of the Rooftop family.

Description

True to traditional Madhubani style art, this painting features bold lines, rhythmic patterns, and rich colours that breathe life into the scene. The detailed representation of water, nets, and boats emphasises the traditional artistry and storytelling that are integral to folk painting. Each detail in this Indian art painting reflects the community’s age-old fishing practices, their bond with the sea, and the simple yet profound beauty of their way of life. Handpainted by Dulari Devi ji, a Padma Shri award-winning artist, this artwork becomes the centre of attraction in any space. The artist employs intricate detailing to showcase their time-honoured fishing practices, the boats they navigate, and the bond they share with nature. The composition reflects both the challenges and the harmony of their way of life.

A beautiful representation of community, a bond between humans and nature, life, sustenance and the wonderful colours and patterns of this traditional Indian folk art, makes this painting a collector's piece. An artwork like this would be a great fit in your home or office space, such as meeting rooms and corridors. Measuring 30.9 x 24.5 inches, this acrylic on canvas painting is perfectly sized to make an impact.

What Makes This Painting Special?

  • A Unique Glimpse into Rural India – This artwork beautifully portrays boats on flowing rivers, fishing nets, hardworking families, and the deep bond between people and water.

  • A Handmade Masterpiece – Unlike digital prints, this is a 100% original hand-painted piece, crafted with care, precision, and storytelling artistry.

  • Rich Cultural Significance – Madhubani art is a centuries-old tradition from the Mithila region, and this painting honours its essence through intricate linework and earthy colours.

  • A Thought-Provoking Piece for Collectors & Art Enthusiasts – Whether you’re drawn to folk traditions, Indian heritage, or unique storytelling through art, this piece is a must-have for your collection.

  • If you’re searching for a meaningful piece of Indian folk art, this hand-painted Madhubani treasure is a testament to culture, craftsmanship, and the enduring spirit of rural communities.

Bring home a piece of Indian heritage today!

What is Madhubani painting?
Madhubani paintings, also known as Mithila paintings, are a traditional Indian art form from the Mithila region of Bihar. These paintings feature intricate patterns, vibrant natural colors, and motifs inspired by mythology, folklore, and nature. Typically created on handmade paper, cloth, or walls, Madhubani paintings use natural dyes and pigments and often depict scenes of gods, animals, and plants. This unique style is known for its rich cultural heritage and eye-catching designs.
Who is Dulari Devi?
Dulari Devi is one of the most famous Madhubani artists in India. She has been awarded the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honour for her contribution to traditional Indian art. With Rooftop you can buy paintings by this famous artists or even learn the artform with an exclusive online Madhubani course by Dulari Devi.
Do artists get royalty for their paintings?
Yes. We believe in fair remuneration for the stunning artworks made by master artists. They receive royalty for every painting sold.
Are the colors in the paintings true to what I see on the website?
We aim to show colors as accurately as possible, but slight variations may occur due to lighting or screen settings. Every piece is unique and may have subtle differences that make it special.
Can I get a Madhubani painting commissioned?
Sure! We’d be happy to help you customize a painting based on what you want. Connect with us on