Archive · 29 Jan 2026
JEEViKA Empowers Bihar’s Krishna Devi in Tanjore Art
Krishna Devi from Bihar is a talented artist who makes beautiful Tanjore paintings.
She and her husband learned this art in Tamil Nadu.
When they returned to Bihar due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they started their own business with the help of a program called JEEViKA.
At first, people doubted them, but now their paintings are famous and sell for a lot of money.
Krishna Devi’s story shows how hard work and support can help overcome challenges.
Krishna Devi and her husband Praveen Kumar learned Tanjore painting in Tamil Nadu and started their business in Bihar with JEEViKA's support.
They faced skepticism from locals but gained recognition through government fairs and exhibitions.
Krishna Devi's paintings are admired across India, with two works selling for ₹3.30 lakh.
Large Tanjore paintings take 5–6 months to complete, while smaller pieces take about 15 days.
The artworks often depict Hindu gods like Krishna, Ram, Vishnu, Lakshmi, and Shiva, crafted with vibrant colors and 22-carat gold foil.
- Who
- Krishna Devi and her husband Praveen Kumar
- What
- Empowerment through Tanjore painting artistry
- When
- Started in 2020 after returning from Tamil Nadu
- Where
- Gunhesa village, Sheikhpura, Bihar
- Why
- To achieve economic independence and preserve traditional art
- Name
- Krishna Devi
- Location
- Gunhesa, Sheikhpura, Bihar
- Education
- 8th grade
- Art Form
- Tanjore paintings
- Support Program
- JEEViKA (Bihar Rural Livelihoods Project)
- Highest Sale Price
- ₹3.30 lakh for two paintings
- Time to Complete Large Painting
- 5–6 months
- Time to Complete Small Painting
- 15 days