Mithila, the northernmost region of the state of Bihar, part of which extends to Nepal, sparks with a very unique food culture. Here even the Brahmin community are fish eating, so immense is the love of fish here. The Banaili Raj family is a Maithili Brahmin family who come from a town called Purnia. They have been zamindars of Banaili Raj, over many years and treasure the culture of Mithila in their own way. One of the highlights of the Banaili Raj family is the kind of dedication they have towards their numerous festivals all laced with mythological stories and interesting rituals. Some very typical and essential of Mithila are Sama Chakeba, Maithili New Year, Jitiya. Girijanand, a member of the Banaili Raj along with being an writer is also a classical singer like his own uncle who was a famed singer and even had a very burgeoning durbar from where a lot of accomplished singers have made their mark on the world. Mithila and Purnia’s climate likewise was fertile in fruits and hence a lot of dishes from seasonal fruits like mangoes and litches came about. The family would gather together during the mango season and enjoy a spread of delicious dishes ranging from mutton, tarua, mango kheer and so forth. The Banal Raj family has also contributed to the development of Maithili as a language in the field of literature by advocating for its place in bigger universities. Mithila and the Banaili Raj family boast of a rich culture from art to music to literature and cuisine. Always adding their own flare to the flavours of Mithila, the Banailli Raj family develops as well as preserves Mithila’s array of warmth, comfort and humour.

Director: Gaurav Mehra