JANAKPUR, Sept 6: Although Mithila artworks are very popular and are often seen hanging from the walls of the homes of the rich, the artists who create them have not been able to commercialize their skills. 

With the hope of changing the situation, government is introducing a program aimed at uplifting the lives of Mithlia artists. 

Despite being a gifted Mithila artist, who started creating Mithila art from childhood, Sonam Karna has been living in poverty. 

Sonam was unable to attend school due to extreme poverty.
 
“I have long had a desire to put this skill to use for make a living. Yet, I have not been able to do so,” said Sonam, a mother of two children.

Just like Sonam, there are many other women in Jankapur who, despite being talented Mithila artists are still living under poverty. 

Aiming to uplift such women, Poverty Alleviation Fund (PAF) has started a campaign to help them commercialize their skills.

Under the campaign, women with some knowledge of Mithila arts and culture would be provided trainings to refine their skills and sell their products in the market. 

The campaign aims to connect them with potential markets and help them establish their business.

At present, the campaign is supporting 26 female Mithila artists associated with “Janaki Utpadan Samudayik Sanstha.” 

Only those women who already can paint and draw Mithila arts have been included in the campaign. 

PAF has established accounts to provide each of the women with Rs 34,000.

“We are funding this campaign to help women establish a career in Mithila arts,” said Satish Chandra Jha, executive manager of PAF. 

“There is a huge potential for women with Mithila art skills to earn a better livelihood. We are just helping them to connect with the market. And besides, promoting this skill and career path would also help safeguard culture and tradition,” he added.

Sonam said they could earn between Rs 50,000 and Rs 55,000 if their products are properly marketed. 

“Having the skills for creating Mithila arts is one thing but finding market is a huge challenge,” she said.

 
• mithila artworks
 
• poverty alleviation fund
 
• commercialize skills