Mala Mukherjee wanted to do something of her own after having quit her career in Advertising due to motherhood responsibilities took precedence. So started painting Madhubani which she had learned long ago. I wanted to do something for myself and others. I had everything in life — children, a loving family that supported me — yet I felt I did not have an identity. Mala’s main style is Bharni painting. This is by far the most colourful style of Madhubani Art. Traditionally, it represents Hindu mythology, but in more modern times is expanding to depict other subject matter. You can see the bright colours and detailed line drawing that are characteristic of Mala’s style. The second style Mala dabbles in is Kayastha Katchni. This is a relatively recent style, compared to the Bharni painting, and was only developed when the Madhubani artists started painting on paper. This style uses much less colour and focuses more on the details of the brush strokes. The paintings are either black and white, or only have one or two colours. With different patterns or designs of brushstrokes. Mala’s paintings on paper explore an array of personal and mythological themes. Her style is notable for combining exquisite craftsmanship, dynamic yet austere compositions, and brilliant colouring.