Bhubaneswar: The State-level Annual Terracotta Exhibition ‘MRUTTIKA-2026’, showcasing Odisha’s traditional pottery and terracotta crafts, began at the IDCO Exhibition Ground here on Saturday, with around 380 artisans from 26 districts participating.
The exhibition, organised by the Department of Handlooms, Textiles and Handicrafts ahead of Diwali, was inaugurated by Minister Pradip Bal Samanta. It will continue till November 6.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony, the Minister said terracotta and pottery crafts represent Odisha’s rich and ancient handicraft traditions. He said the state government was committed to promoting these traditional crafts and ensuring the economic prosperity of artisans engaged in the sector.
To facilitate the participation of artisans, the department has provided free stalls and extended assistance towards travel expenses, daily allowances and transportation of their products, the Minister said.
Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the department Guha Poonam Tapas Kumar said the exhibition aims to bring terracotta and pottery products under one roof while providing artisans with a common commercial platform to expand their market reach and improve their livelihoods.
A total of 218 stalls have been set up at this year’s exhibition, with organisers expecting business turnover of more than Rs 3 crore. The exhibition will remain open to visitors daily from 11 am to 9 pm.
A special theme pavilion showcasing the journey of terracotta handicrafts has been set up as part of the exhibition. Cultural programmes will also be organised every evening to attract visitors.
During their visit to the stalls, the Minister and the Commissioner-cum-Secretary interacted with artisans and enquired about their welfare and business experiences. The artisans shared their experiences of working in the terracotta sector and the earnings generated through their year-round handicraft activities.
More than 44,000 artisans across Odisha depend on terracotta and pottery crafts for their livelihood. These crafts figure prominently among the 64 handicraft traditions recognised by the state government.
Director of Handicrafts Nibedita Pushti, Special Secretary Bikramaditya Barik, Special Officer Indira Behera, Joint Secretary Mamata Nayak, Financial Advisor Madhusmita Behera, Deputy Director of Handicrafts Managobinda Jena and other departmental officials attended the inaugural ceremony.
