Bhubaneswar: The Centre has taken a major step to revive the historic Pipili applique industry of Puri. Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Sekhawat informed about the steps taken to preserve Pipili applique works in response to a question raised in the Lok Sabha by Puri MP Sambit Patra.
The Union Minister wrote a letter to the Puri MP in this regard.
According to his announcement, all the seven Zonal Cultural Centers (ZCC) will play an active role in the preservation of Chandwa industry. Applique works will be given a special place in the Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsavs (RSMs). Financial assistance will be provided to the artisans. New market opportunities will be created for them. Sekhawat said that special training and employment arrangements will be made to involve the young generation in this traditional industry.
“I would like to inform you that all the seven Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs) under the Ministry of Culture have been directed to take up the traditional applique work (Chandua) of Pipili in Puri under the vanishing arts. All efforts will be made to provide opportunities to the Chandua artisans during Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsavs (RSMs) and other programmes/activities organized by them with the objective to preserve/ revive the said art form,” the letter read.
This historic craft associated with the culture of Mahaprabhu Sri Jagannath is world famous for its exquisite craftsmanship and vibrant colours. The industry has played an important role in various religious festivals, including the annual procession. Now the central government has taken steps to protect this industry.
Sambit Patra said that the step of the central government is crucial to preserve this priceless heritage of Odisha.
-IANS
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