Pipli Applique

 

Pipli Applique: A Dazzling Discovery in Odisha (#OdishaTourism #PipliApplique)

Have you ever stumbled upon a hidden gem while traveling? That's exactly what happened to me on a assignment in Odisha. My train back to Ranchi wasn't until late, so I was relaxing when my phone buzzed – it was the boss! He needed a story for the magazine. With a quick change of plans, I decided to explore Konark, a famous Sun Temple about 60 kilometers from Bhubaneswar.

On the way, I spotted a sign for Pipli, a village just 26 kilometers from Bhubaneswar (and about 40 kilometers from Konark). Curiosity piqued, I made a detour. Little did I know, I was about to discover a dazzling art form – Pipli Applique!

Pipli's history is intertwined with the worship of Lord Jagannath. As far back as the 12th century, the Gajapati kings commissioned colorful applique canopies, umbrellas, lanterns, and decorations for the annual Rath Yatra festival.

This vibrant craft involves teamwork between men and women. Men meticulously cut out intricate shapes, while women stitch them onto base fabrics. The results are stunning – wall hangings, umbrellas, and other items adorned with elephants, peacocks, flowers like lotus and jasmine, and even modern motifs. These artworks, also known as Chandua, come in all shapes and sizes – from purses and bags to clothing and carpets.

Pipli Applique wasn't always a tourist attraction. Originally, it was a temple art form patronized by royalty. Today, skilled artisans continue to create beautiful, large-scale decorative pieces, while also adapting their craft to create smaller, more affordable souvenirs.

Tourists visiting Odisha often stop by Pipli, captivated by the vibrant displays of lanterns, magnets, pens, and other trinkets made from bamboo, alongside exquisitely crafted jewelry boxes, key chains, and frames. The prices are friendly, making these souvenirs perfect keepsakes to remember your trip.

So, next time you're in Odisha, don't miss the chance to explore Pipli and witness the artistry of its talented craftspeople. Their creations are a testament to a rich tradition, and a delightful addition to any traveler's collection.

Pictures details—

1.     Artesian at work.

2.     Artistic Pipli products.







3.     Huge umbrella on display

4.     Pipli products shown by the shopkeeper.

5.     Pipli colorful products on sale.

Text and Photos by Ashok Karan, Ashokkaran.blogspot.com

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