India finds its identity in its rich history and diversity. And the rural and tribal culture of the country is perhaps a just representation of the spirit of beauty that's inherent in it. Imbued in this tradition is the creativity of art. In their process of creativity is one where the whole community participates, in etching, moulding and sculpting their unique communication with the grass, the soil, the birds, the trees, the sun, the moon and all that's known and unknown.

Tribal art is the art of people of different cultural and social groups whose lives are intertwined with the rhythms of nature, with the energy of earth and the cyclic change in the environment. It is a changing art form- changing with the environment, memories, experiences of these people. Fairs, festivals, local deities, Gods and Goddesses, myths, legends, dreams, fantasies, nature and animals play a vital role in the essence of Indian tribal art.

And thus the role the moon plays in these paintings is hardly negligible. The moon is considered a deity in India and part of various rituals.

For instance in the Maithili or Madhubani paintings the artists using the colours, derived from clay, bark, flowers and berries, draw themes from nature and mythology and the deities widely painted are Krishna, Rama,Siva, Durga, Lakshmi, Saraswati, Sun and Moon and Tulasi plant, floral, animal and bird motifs are used to fill up all the gaps.The women also offer their prayers ti the deities before starting their work.

Like in the Madhubani paintings, in many other forms of Indian paintings, the moon is used as motifs and symbols.

Thus it can be said that the art forms of India seem to be drenched in the moonlight; where life and creativity exist assimilated.

(With research inputs)