With an ancient tradition of making splendid pieces of art by hand, artisans of Odisha have long been presenting their awe-inspiring crafts to the world. The range of Handicrafts that run as the life force of the cultural state comprise Pattachitra, Applique work, Silver Filigree, Bell Metal and Brassware, Stone Carving, Sand Art and more.
Pattachitra, Folk Art of Odisha
Pattachitra is a form of traditional cloth-based miniature paintings, with religious themes depicted in their subject content, such as legends from the life of Lord Krishna. The art is practised on specially treated cloth called "Patta".
Applique Work of Odisha
Applique of Odisha is a living tradition that has been continuing since centuries, mainly popular in the Pipli region. Tailors in Pipli execute applique works which are in great demand. Giant-sized umbrellas with applique work are produced for use during festive occasions. They are also used as garden umbrellas in sprawling lawns, lending grace and colour to any gathering. Heart-shaped fans, big and small canopies, wall hangings are also prepared with applique work. The craftsmen cut out figures of animals, birds, flowers and geometrical shapes of richly coloured cloth and these are arranged symmetrically on another piece of cloth fabric, sewn in place to produce an eye-catchy design. Applique works showcase vibrant splashes of yellow, white, green, blue, red and black.
Silver Filigree of Odisha
Silver Filigree in Odisha is one of the most exquisite renditions of silver craft, popularly known as Tarkashi. Crafted by the skilled artisans of Cuttack, silver filigree ornaments range among the finest handicrafts of the state. The process of making filigree consists of drawing beaten silver through a series of consecutively smaller holes to produce fine strands of wire, which are then crafted into various shapes by skilled craftsmen. They mould them into different designs and solder them with pincer and scissors. Silver used by the artisans is of usually high purity, often exceeding 90 per cent. Ornaments for women include necklaces, brooches, ear pendants, anklets and bangles that exude elegance.
Bell Metal and Brassware of Odisha
Bell Metal and Brassware is an asset of Odisha, artefacts ranging from beautiful lamps and lamp stands to rice measuring bowls, elephants and horses embellished with intricate designs.
Stone Carving in Odisha
Stone Carving is an age-old craft of Odisha, its priceless repertoire best revealed in the architecture and rock-cut sculptures of notable Odisha temples like Lingaraja Temple, Jagannath Temple, Mukteshwara Temple, Gopunath Temple and Konark Temple.
Sand Art, based at Puri, involves accurate sand sculptures carved out by Odia artists, offering an absolute visual delight to onlookers and tourists. Other handicrafts of Odisha comprise Dhokra Casting, Golden Grass work, Horn Works, Lacquer Toys and Papier Mache.
