The workshop is being held at the University of Fiji’s Central Campus as part of a five-day celebration of art and culture, in collaboration with the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre and the Suva Multicultural Centre.
Madhubani art facilitator Rashmi Ahalawat says Madhubani art is the ancient art form originated from the Mithila region of northern India and was traditionally created by women on the walls and floors of homes during weddings, festivals and other auspicious occasions.
Ahalawat says Madhubani art is now recognised across India and internationally, with the art form also being used on clothing and other materials.
She says different symbols and motifs used in Madhubani art carry specific meanings.
Ahalawat says fish represents prosperity and fertility, while the peacock represents love and beauty.
University of Fiji Central Campus Coordinator Ilana Burness says the workshops are free and open to the public, with people still welcome to attend the remaining sessions.
She says the five-day programme will also feature weaving, screen painting, mixed-media art and bottle painting.
The India High Commissioner to Fiji Suneet Maheta says the programme is designed to bring people together while giving participants an opportunity to appreciate and learn about different aspects of India’s artistic heritage.
He says initiatives such as this strengthen the people to people connections between India and Fiji through cultural exchange and creative expression.
