Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s rich terracotta heritage is once again in the spotlight with the inauguration of the Annual ‘Mruttika-2025’ Terracotta Exhibition at the IDCO Exhibition Ground in Bhubaneswar. The week-long event, organised by the Handlooms, Textiles, and Handicrafts Department, showcases the skill and artistry of over 350 terracotta and pottery artisans from across the state.
Addressing the gathering during the inaugural ceremony, Handlooms, Textiles, and Handicrafts Minister Pradeep Bal Samanta emphasised the cultural significance of terracotta craft, which symbolises Odisha’s ancient heritage. He reiterated the government’s commitment to economically empower artisans by promoting their handicrafts at a larger scale.
The exhibition runs from October 13 to October 19, 2025, featuring 210 stalls that remain open daily from 11 am to 9 pm. With an expected business turnover exceeding Rs 3 crore, the event not only provides a platform for artisans to sell their creations but also helps sustain traditional craft practices in a modern marketplace.
Guha Poonam Tapas Kumar, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Handlooms, Textiles, and Handicrafts Department, highlighted that the exhibition aims to improve commercial prospects for artisans and boost economic growth within the handicrafts sector. Cultural programs are scheduled every evening, while the theme pavilion narrates the evolution of terracotta from traditional art to contemporary decorative items.
Odisha is home to more than 40 terracotta craft clusters, and terracotta pottery is among the oldest crafts recognised by the state government. To support participating artisans, the government provides free stalls, travel allowances, daily stipends, and transportation assistance for materials.
Furthering infrastructure development, the government has initiated Common Facility Centres, Handicraft Tourism Centres, and Raw Material Banks under the ‘Srujanika’ brand in 28 key handicraft clusters. Recently, the daily allowance for artisans on exposure visits outside Odisha was increased from Rs 300 to Rs 500. In addition, 18 new training centres have been operationalised across 17 districts this year to foster skill development and encourage the next generation of artisans.
The ‘Mruttika-2025’ exhibition continues to be a vital initiative in preserving Odisha’s terracotta heritage, ensuring that this ancient craft thrives for years to come.
