Bhubaneswar: The city’s premier museum dedicated to Odisha’s rich handloom and handicraft heritage, Kala Bhoomi, celebrated its 8th Foundation Day today at Gandamunda. In a special gesture, the museum waived the entry fee for all visitors, welcoming a large crowd eager to experience the state’s cultural legacy.
The day-long celebrations included a vibrant lineup of cultural performances, featuring sitar and tabla recitals alongside Odissi and Sambalpuri folk dances. The performances were designed to entertain guests while showcasing Odisha’s diverse artistic traditions.
The event was attended by senior officials, including Nivedita Prusty, Director of Handicrafts; Somesh Kumar Upadhyay, Director of Textiles and Handlooms; and Chinmayi Biswal, Member Secretary of SIDAC. During the program, the museum’s journey from its foundation stone laying to the present day was highlighted, emphasizing the collective effort to establish Kala Bhoomi’s identity on a global platform. Saswati Sahu, Chief Executive Officer of the museum, delivered the vote of thanks.
Visitors explored the museum’s beautifully curated galleries, which display terracotta, traditional paintings, stone carvings, and metal crafts. The exhibits reflect Odisha’s rich heritage and the extraordinary skill of the state’s artisans.
Since its inception on March 22, 2018, Kala Bhoomi has welcomed students, researchers, curators, anthropologists, and museum enthusiasts from across the globe. The institution, shaped by the work of Odisha’s weavers and artisans, has evolved into a premier center for cultural preservation, education, and exchange.
Highlighting recent achievements, over 1,000 terracotta artisans participated in the 20th Grand Toshali Mela, creating artworks that were later displayed at Kala Bhoomi. The museum continues to draw significant attention for its exhibitions and efforts to preserve traditional arts.
Kala Bhoomi stands as a testament to the belief that “the preservation of tradition is the true hallmark of progress.” Its mission is to keep Odisha’s art and culture alive, not just as history, but as a living inspiration for future generations, ensuring the state’s artistic identity remains vibrant for years to come.
