Bhubaneswar: In a bid to strengthen Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and support traditional livelihoods, Development Commissioner and Additional Chief Secretary Anu Garg visited Pipili in Puri district today to promote the region’s famed Chandua (appliqué) handicraft industry. The visit underlined the state government’s ongoing commitment to uplift artisans and develop Pipili into a major handicraft and cultural tourism hub.
During her visit, Garg interacted with local artisans and held detailed discussions on the challenges they face. The conversations centred around improving access to raw materials, creating stronger market opportunities for Chandua products, and offering training programs for young and aspiring artisans. These efforts, she emphasised, are crucial to preserving the traditional art form while also enabling artisans to earn sustainable livelihoods.
Garg noted that Pipili, located on the busy Bhubaneswar–Puri corridor, holds immense potential to emerge as a national centre for appliqué craft. Its proximity to major tourist destinations and deep-rooted association with Odisha’s temple traditions make it an ideal focal point for craft-led tourism. She added that with the right support, Pipili could attract both domestic and international attention for its exquisite handmade creations.
Pipili’s appliqué work is a centuries-old craft known for its vibrant use of colour, intricate stitching, and deep spiritual significance. The products made here—ranging from umbrellas, cloth bags, and dolls to decorative screens, carpets, and temple adornments—are especially visible during major festivals like the Rath Yatra, where they are used to embellish the chariots of the deities. The artisans, using vivid threads, sequins, and beads, create ornate pieces that are sought after by both tourists and locals alike.
Garg’s visit is seen as a significant step toward aligning cultural preservation with economic development. It highlights the state’s broader strategy of promoting traditional industries through targeted interventions that not only preserve Odisha’s cultural identity but also provide stable income opportunities to rural artisans. As Pipili looks to the future, the government’s renewed focus offers hope for a thriving and globally recognised Chandua industry.
