Mandana Art

Sessions:  2
Hrs per Session:  2

Mandana Art is a traditional tribal art form practiced by the Meena community of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, primarily by women, and is one of the oldest forms of Indian folk art.

Derived from the word mandan, meaning “decoration,” this art is created on floors and walls during festivals, marriages, and other auspicious occasions to protect homes and invite divine blessings.

Mandana paintings feature motifs of Hindu deities, animals like peacocks and tigers, birds, and geometric patterns, symbolizing religious and natural elements.

The designs are symmetrical and drawn freehand using natural brushes made from twigs, cotton, or hair. Traditionally, the base is made with geru (red soil), cow dung, and yellow clay, while white designs are painted using a limestone or chalk mixture.

Over time, synthetic paints like acrylics and oils have replaced natural materials. Despite a decline due to modern housing and lifestyle changes, Mandana remains a powerful symbol of feminine artistic heritage and spiritual expression.