In the village of Saurath in Bihar’s Madhubani district, nearly 160 artists and students joined forces to create a 108-metre long continuous Mithila painting depicting 51 episodes of the Ramayana. This monumental collaborative artwork not only sets a new record but also celebrates the rich cultural heritage deeply rooted in the region.
- 160 artists worked on a 108m continuous canvas.
- The artwork depicts 51 scenes from the Ramayana.
- Created in Bihar’s culturally rich Mithila region.
What happened
Over several days in Saurath village, about 160 artists, including skilled painters and students, collaborated to produce a massive Mithila painting measuring 108 metres in length and one metre in width. The painting was created on a single continuous strip of fabric, allowing multiple artists to paint different parts simultaneously. This approach helped maintain a natural flow to the visual narration, avoiding the segmented look of separate panels.
The artwork illustrates 51 episodes from the Ramayana, drawing inspiration from both Valmiki’s original text and Tulsidas’s Ramcharitmanas. The scenes chronicle the life of Ram—from his birth and exile to the battle in Lanka and his triumphant return to Ayodhya—celebrating an epic that holds special significance in the Mithila region.
Why it feels good
The project is a beautiful testament to the power of community collaboration, bringing together generations of Mithila artists to create something truly unique. The collective effort reinforces the cultural heritage of this centuries-old folk art, which originated as wall paintings by women and gradually evolved into detailed works on paper and cloth.
Additionally, the art form’s connection to the local land and mythology makes the painting more than just a visual spectacle—it is a meaningful cultural celebration. Since Mithila is traditionally considered to be Sita’s birthplace, the Ramayana holds deep local resonance, making the artwork a source of pride for those involved and their community.
What to enjoy or watch next
As the painting was unveiled around India’s Independence Day in August 2026, it symbolized not only a preservation of traditional art but also a broader celebration of Indian culture and shared history. Future opportunities could include exhibitions or cultural festivals where audiences experience the full narrative in new ways, helping to keep this art form vibrant and accessible.
However, presenting and preserving such a lengthy canvas poses unique challenges, such as finding suitable display venues and ensuring its longevity. Yet, the project’s success may pave the way for new large-scale artworks and inspire similar community efforts, fostering appreciation for folk traditions both in India and beyond.