Bihar: Exploring the Rich Culture and Traditions of Eastern India
Bihar historyBihar has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Neolithic era. It was ruled by various dynasties including the Mauryas, Guptas, and Mughals. The state played an important role in the Indian independence movement, with many leaders hailing from Bihar, such as Mahatma Gandhi, Jayaprakash Narayan, and Dr. Rajendra Prasad. In addition to its historical significance, Bihar is also known for its rich cultural heritage. One aspect of this heritage is the presence of wall paintings in the state. These paintings are typically found in public places such as temples, but they can also be seen in private homes. They often depict religious scenes or mythological stories and are a unique form of folk art.
In addition to its wall paintings, Bihar is renowned for its handicrafts and products for home decor. Photo frames and showpieces, for example, are popular objects manufactured by local artists. The Radha Krishna picture, which depicts the holy pair in Hindu mythology, is one such showcase. People may conveniently acquire these things from anywhere thanks to the simplicity of internet shopping for them. These objects, in addition to being useful for personal home design, also make excellent gifts. At festivals and other important events, they are frequently presented as keepsakes or as presents. Due to the growth of e-commerce, you can now get showpieces and other things for your home's decor online and have them delivered right to your door.
Bihar traditions
The traditions and customs of Bihar are a reflection of the rich cultural legacy of the state. The presence of wall paintings, a unique style of folk art that has been passed down through generations, is one component of this tradition. These paintings, which are commonly seen in public areas like temples and private residences, represent religious and mythical stories. With the development of e-commerce, it is now feasible to buy beautiful artwork online and have them delivered to your home.
Another tradition in Bihar is the creation of handicrafts and home decor items. These items are often made by local artisans and are a reflection of the state's rich cultural heritage. Photo frames and showpieces are popular items that are used for personal home decor and can also be given as gift items during festivals and special occasions. One such showpiece is the Radha Krishna painting, which is a depiction of the divine couple in Hindu mythology. In recent years, the availability of these items has dramatically increased. It is now possible to buy showpieces and other home decor items online and have them delivered to your doorstep. This has made it easier for people to access these traditional handicrafts and support local artisans while also preserving the state's cultural heritage.
Bihar festival
Bihar is a state located in eastern India that is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditions. The state celebrates a variety of festivals throughout the year that are a reflection of its diverse religious and cultural communities. Here are some of the most popular festivals celebrated in Bihar:
Sonepur Cattle Fair: Held in the month of November, this is Asia's largest cattle fair, where various breeds of cattle, horses, and other domestic animals are bought and sold.
Rajgir Dance Festival: A celebration of classical dance forms like Kathak and Bharatnatyam, held against the backdrop of the ancient ruins of Rajgir.
Buddha Jayanti: Celebrated in honor of Lord Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and death, this festival is observed with much enthusiasm and devotion in Bodh Gaya.
Chatth Puja: A four-day long festival that is celebrated with much fanfare in Bihar and other parts of North India, dedicated to the worship of the Sun God.
Bihula-Bishari Puja: Celebrated in honor of the legendary Bihula and her husband, the festival is marked by colorful processions and the offering of prayers to the deities.
Teej: A popular festival celebrated by women in Bihar, marked by fasting, feasting, and the exchange of gifts.
Pitrapaksha Mela: A month-long festival held at Gaya in Bihar, where people offer prayers and perform rituals to their ancestors.
Madhushravani: A unique festival in Bihar, where women sing songs and offer prayers to the serpent god to ward off any danger or harm.
Holi: Holi is a popular festival celebrated all over India, including Bihar. It is also known as the Festival of Colors and is celebrated on the full moon day in the month of Phalguna. People play with colors, sing and dance to celebrate the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil.
Makar Sankranti: Makar Sankranti is celebrated in mid-January and marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn. The festival is celebrated with kite flying, feasting and distributing sweets made from sesame seeds and jaggery.
Ram Navami: Ram Navami is celebrated in honor of Lord Rama's birth and is observed on the ninth day of the Hindu month of Chaitra. The festival is marked by prayers, fasting, and the recitation of hymns and mantras.
Eid-ul-Fitr: Eid-ul-Fitr is one of the most important festivals celebrated by the Muslim community in Bihar. It marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan and is a time for feasting and offering prayers at mosques.
Durga Puja: Durga Puja is a popular festival celebrated in Bihar, especially in the city of Patna. The festival is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga and is celebrated with great pomp and show. The festival involves pandal hopping, feasting and offering prayers to the goddess.
Bihar is also known for its famous Bihar cuisine, and the state celebrates several food festivals. One of the most popular food festivals is the Bihar Diwas, which is celebrated on March 22 every year, to commemorate the formation of the state. During this festival, people enjoy traditional Bihari dishes, such as litti chokha, sattu, and Dhaka. Other festivals celebrated in Bihar include Eid, Diwali, Durga Puja, and Raksha Bandhan. These festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm and involve a range of rituals and customs that reflect the state's cultural diversity.
Bihar’s food
The rich cultural past of the state of Bihar is reflected in the cuisine of the region. Litti-chokha, sattu paratha, and baingan bharta are among the most well-known foods. Litti-chokha is a popular cuisine that consists of baked wheat balls filled with a mixture of sattu (gram flour) and spices and served with chokha, a spicy side dish comprised of mashed potatoes, brinjal, and tomatoes. A wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian foods can be found in the cuisine of Bihar, which is renowned for being distinctive and tasty. Bihar's most well-liked foods include the following:
Litti Chokha - It is a traditional dish of Bihar that is made by stuffing wheat flour balls with sattu (roasted gram flour), herbs, and spices. It is then roasted over an open flame and served with a spicy vegetable mash made of boiled potatoes, brinjal, and tomatoes.
Sattu Paratha - It is a popular breakfast dish in Bihar made with wheat flour and sattu. Sattu is mixed with spices and water to form a filling, which is then stuffed into the paratha.
Chana Ghugni - It is a spicy curry made with boiled chickpeas, onions, tomatoes, and a variety of spices. It is usually served with hot puris or steamed rice.
Dal Pitha - It is a dumpling made with rice flour and stuffed with a mixture of lentils, herbs, and spices. The dumplings are then steamed and served with ghee and chutney.
Khaja - It is a crispy and flaky sweet made with refined flour, ghee, and sugar syrup. It is a popular sweet in Bihar and is usually served during festivals and special occasions.
Malpua - It is a sweet pancake made with flour, milk, and sugar. It is usually fried in ghee and served with rabri (thickened sweetened milk).
Lai - It is a sweet dish made with puffed rice, jaggery, and sesame seeds. It is a popular snack in Bihar and is usually made during festivals.
These are just a few examples of the delicious food that Bihar has to offer. Whether you are a vegetarian or a non-vegetarian, Bihar's cuisine has something to offer everyone.
Bihar music
A variety of folk songs and dances are performed at festivals and other special events in Bihar, a state with a long history of music and dance. Bhojpuri music, recognized for its catchy rhythms and romantic lyrics, is one of the most popular types of music in Bihar. Bhojpuri music has grown in popularity not just in Bihar, but also throughout India and internationally. The classical music of Bihar, which has been affected by the customs of nearby states like Bengal and Uttar Pradesh, is also well-known. This is in addition to the famed Bhojpuri music. There is a strong legacy of classical music in Bihar, and the state has produced several well-known musicians. These are a few more well-known classical performers from Bihar:
Ustad Bismillah Khan - He was a shehnai maestro and is considered one of the greatest musicians India has ever produced. He was born in Dumraon, Bihar.
Ustad Ali Akbar Khan - He was a famous sarod player and composer who is credited with popularizing Indian classical music in the West. He was born in Comilla (now in Bangladesh) but spent a significant part of his life in Bihar.
Ustad Rashid Khan - He is a renowned Hindustani classical vocalist and the great-grandson of the legendary musician Inayat Hussain Khan. He was born in Badayun, Uttar Pradesh, but his family moved to Bihar when he was young.
Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma - He is a renowned santoor player and composer who has made significant contributions to Indian classical music. He was born in Jammu but spent a significant part of his childhood in Bihar.
These musicians have contributed significantly to the development and promotion of classical music in Bihar and beyond, and their legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians and music lovers alike.
Bihar art & culture
Bihar's culture is rich and diverse, as seen by its art and architecture. The state is well-known for its traditional Bihar handicrafts, including famous Madhubani paintings, Sujani needlework, and Tikuli art, which are popular among art enthusiasts. Here are some aspects of Bihar's art and culture:
Madhubani Painting - Madhubani painting is a traditional art form that originated in the Mithila region of Bihar. It is known for its intricate and colorful designs depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and nature. The paintings are usually done on walls, floors, and paper, using natural pigments.
Folk Music and Dance - Bihar has a rich tradition of folk music and dance. Some of the popular dance forms include Jat-Jatin, Bidesia, and Jhumari. The music and dance forms are often performed during festivals and special occasions.
Mahavir Mandir - Mahavir Mandir, located in Patna, is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is one of the most visited temples in Bihar and is known for its grandeur and religious significance.
Buddhism - Bihar is also known for its association with Buddhism. The state is home to several important Buddhist pilgrimage sites, including Bodh Gaya, where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment.
Architecture: Bihar is home to several impressive examples of ancient architecture, such as the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The state also has several impressive forts and palaces, such as the Raj Mahal in Rajgir.
Maithili Art: Maithili is a form of traditional art that originated in Bihar. It includes various forms such as Madhubani painting, Khatwa, Godna, and more. These artworks are often created using natural colors and depict various themes, such as mythological stories, nature, and everyday life.
Bihar's art and culture reflect its rich history, religious traditions, and diverse ethnic communities. The state's cultural heritage is a testament to its resilience and enduring spirit.
FAQs (FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS)
What dance is well-known in Bihar?The mythical town of Mithila is where the Bihar traditional dance known as Jhijhiya is performed. Only ladies are allowed to perform this dance.
What is the Bihar folk song?
'Harkirtan' refers to well-known religious folk melodies. In Hindu sacred sites, the refrain "Hare-Rama, Hare-Krishna" is chanted continuously for 24 hours in the form of the popular religious folk song "Astajim."
What are Bihar's instruments?
Several types of musical instruments are widely used by the numerous tribes and villages in this area. These include the Pipahi (which resembles Shehnai), Dhol, Dhak, Dhanaka, Madal, Mandar or Madol, Nagara, flute, Jhanjh, and clappers, among other instruments.
Where can I buy traditional handicrafts and home decor items from Bihar?
You can easily find traditional handicrafts and home decor items such as Radha Krishna paintings, wall paintings, photo frames, and showpieces online on various e-commerce platforms.
Can I gift my loved ones traditional handicrafts and home decor items from Bihar?
Yes, traditional handicrafts and home decor items from Bihar, such as Radha Krishna paintings, wall paintings, photo frames, and showpieces, make great gifts for loved ones and can be purchased easily online.
Conclusion
Bihar's rich history, diverse traditions, vibrant festivals, unique culinary traditions, and rich cultural heritage make it a fascinating state to explore. The state's traditional handicrafts and home decor items, such as Radha Krishna paintings, and the famous painting of Bihar, offer a glimpse into the state's cultural identity and make great gifts for loved ones or can be used to decorate one's own home. Thanks to the availability of these items online, anyone can now easily purchase them and bring a piece of Bihar's heritage into their own homes. By doing so, we can help to preserve and celebrate Bihar's rich cultural heritage for future generations. So, whether you are interested in exploring Bihar's history, trying its unique cuisine, or listening to its rich classical and Bhojpuri music, there is something for everyone to appreciate and enjoy in this beautiful state. Don't hesitate to explore the wide range of Wall Paintings Online, Photo Frames, and Home Decor Items, and Buy Showpieces Online that are available and bring a touch of Bihar's art and culture into your own home.