Speakers

Sh. ASHOK KUMAR BISWAS

Ashok Kumar Biswas is one of the pioneers among Tikuli artisans. He has worked hard to revive this ancient art of Tikuli painting which was almost forgotten.

Tikuli Art originated in Patna and is believed to be 800 years old. The modern form of this art is seen as the incarnation of decorative “bindi” worn by women on the forehead. The motifs of hindu mythological characters are widely used in Tikuli paintings. Patna-based Ashok Kumar has restored this art single handedly. He has fused the tikuli craft with another art form of Bihar - Madhubani - to make decorative wall plates, coasters, table mats, wall hangings, trays, pen stands and other utility items.

Today Tikuli art also serves as an economic beneficiary for over 300 women in Bihar. The noble efforts of the Biswas and the workmanship of these women are nationally and internationally acclaimed.