Bharni

Derived from the word "Bharna" - Means to Fill
This is the most popular style of Madhubani art

It was practiced by upper caste people which depicted mythological characters in epics, especially the Ramayana and Mahabharata which the womenfolk knew from the continued recital.

Characteristics: This style is known for its bold and vibrant colors. The themes usually revolve around mythology, especially Hindu deities like Radha-Krishna, Shiva-Parvati, and other epic characters. Usage: The Bharni style can be used to represent divinity and celebration. It typically uses a base color filled in large spaces with minimal patterns, making it visually striking.

Katchni

Characteristics: Kachni is characterized by intricate line work, where the designs are filled with fine cross-hatching and stippling techniques instead of solid colors. It's typically done in black and white or with minimal color. Usage: This style can be employed to showcase detailed craftsmanship. It is great for depicting scenes that need subtlety and an emphasis on intricacy."Kachni" refers to a style of Madhubani painting that uses fine lines and small dots to create images. The word "kachni" means "linesKachni paintings are one of the most elaborate and exclusive forms within the overall Madhubani arts.Kachni paintings are made using the dip nib technique. The images are filled with closely drawn parallel lines or small dots. The thickness of the lines depends on the design. This particular art form has a unique individual style, mainly made using a monochrome or only two colors. The finest details are created and the fine pattern is made with hatching and stippling. In Katchni paintings all the forms which were drawn were filled with different types of rendering instead of filling colours.

Tantrik

Tantrik used for religious texts. Characteristics: As the name suggests, the Tantrik style focuses on esoteric and religious themes, such as the representation of deities associated with tantric traditions. The art often symbolizes cosmic energies and spiritual forms.Depict Hindu mythological characters, such as Maha Kali, Maha Durga, and Maha Lakshmi Feature motifs associated with Tantric rituals, such as yantras, mandalas, and other geometric symbols Use bold colors and mystical themes, Aim to connote deeper spiritual meanings, Represent the cosmic order and spiritual concepts.Tantra is an original text describing the Hindu religion and its aspects. Therefore, most of the paintings of the Tantrik style have the influence of Tantra in their painting patterns.

Godna

Origin: The word "Godna" comes from Hindi and is essentially translated as "to prick" or "to puncture," which relates to the technique of tattooing by pricking the skin with needles to create designs. Characteristics: This style derives from the traditional tattoo (godna) patterns, and the designs are made up of geometric shapes, lines, and dots. It uses fewer colors and focuses more on patterns than figures. Usage: Godna can be used to reflect the tribal roots and ancestral connections of Madhubani art, emphasizing cultural and regional identity. This is the most simple style. Godna is commonly known as a tattoo in today's life and it was first created by Chano Devi. It was created on arms and legs. In the beginning, a pointed bamboo pen with lampblack ink was used. This style has concentric circles of flowers, fields, animals, figures, and spirit.

Kohbar

Characteristics: Kohbar paintings are typically done during weddings and symbolize fertility, love, and union. They include motifs like lotus, bamboo, fish, and birds. These are more ritualistic and use a combination of styles like Bharni and Kachni. Usage: This style can be introduced in sections focusing on ceremonial traditions, rituals, or to highlight the themes of family and fertility in Madhubani art.The painting style which is painted on the wall of Khobar is known as “Khobar”. This Kohbar painting is filled with rich details and each contributing significantly to the meaning of the whole. This is practiced by the lower class of society. They wash the paper with cow dung and paintings are created using earth colors.These were originally painted in the ‘kohbar ghar’ or the nuptial chamber where the bride and groom consummate their marriage. The Kohbar painting is filled with rich details, each contributing significance to the meaning of the whole. This painting is painted by women to get blessings from God and family members to newly married couple. This art has unique style of painting with fine lines and patterns. Each and every element of Madhubani kohbar painting has its own importance and ritual purpose.