Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Tuesday launched the state-level special handicrafts exhibition “Utkalaa: Shri Ganesh” at Ekamra Haat here, showcasing a wide range of traditional Ganesha artworks ahead of Ganesh Puja.
Organised by the Department of Handlooms, Textiles and Handicrafts, the exhibition will continue till September 13 and features 33 stalls with the participation of 34 artisans from 16 districts. It will remain open to visitors from 11 am to 9 pm.
The exhibition was inaugurated by Cooperation, Handlooms, Textiles and Handicrafts Minister Pradeep Bal Samanta in the presence of Commissioner-cum-Secretary Guha Poonam Tapas Kumar and other departmental officials.
Themed “Shri Ganesh”, the exhibition brings together Ganesha idols and artworks crafted from clay, wood, stone, terracotta, paddy, coconut coir, brass and bell metal, besides intricate creations on palm leaves and Pattachitra works.
The exhibition has been organised for both display and sale, with the government aiming to provide artisans direct access to customers and expand the market for their products under the “Utkalaa” brand. The initiative seeks to promote Odisha’s traditional craftsmanship, increase artisan incomes and strengthen the local economy.
“Utkalaa” is a state initiative aimed at giving a new identity and wider market to Odisha’s rich handloom, textile and handicraft traditions, in line with the “Vocal for Local” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” campaigns. The department said the initiative seeks to encourage people to adopt local products and support local artisans.
