In 1934, a massive earthquake devastated Nepal and northern Bihar, reducing homes to rubble. Amid the destruction, British officer William Archer noticed something remarkable - vibrant wall paintings in the ruins of Mithila households. These murals, created by women to adorn their homes during festivals, weddings, and rituals, displayed extraordinary patterns, colors, and storytelling.

What Archer saw that day would transform the fate of this ancient art. Struck by its beauty, he documented and exhibited the paintings, introducing Mithila (Madhubani) art to audiences far beyond India. Over time, the art form gained global recognition, celebrated for its intricate motifs inspired by mythology, nature, and folklore.

Traditionally practiced by women of the region, Mithila art became a powerful means of livelihood and cultural identity. Today, it graces galleries worldwide and continues to thrive as both a heritage craft and a modern artistic movement.

From the rubble of tragedy, Mithila art emerged as a symbol of resilience - its walls telling stories that still echo across the globe.