Dhenkanal: Despite heavy rains and adverse weather, over 30 heritage and culture enthusiasts visited the villages of Nuagaon and Sadeibareni, renowned for their traditional Dhokra crafts. The visit was part of the 17th Dhenkanal Heritage Walk (DHW), with this edition focusing on the ancient art of Dhokra metal casting and the lives of the artisans who continue to preserve this craft.
Dhokra, a non-ferrous metal casting art form, has a rich history in India, with the lost-wax casting technique dating back over 4,000 years. The craft is especially famous for its simplicity, striking folk motifs, and intricate designs, making it popular in both domestic and international markets. Items such as Dhokra horses, elephants, owls, religious figures, and lamp caskets are widely appreciated for their artistic value.
The heritage walk provided participants with a unique opportunity to engage with master craftsmen and learn about the intricate processes behind Dhokra art. Award-winning artisan Sanatan Pradhan, from the Nuagaon Dhokra Craft Village, demonstrated the metal casting technique. Pradhan, who comes from a long line of Dhokra artists, relocated to Nuagaon along with 35 other families, after leaving their ancestral village of Sadeibareni. He shared insights into the challenges faced by the artisans in keeping the tradition alive, despite economic hardships. Pradhan is noted for representing the Sadeibareni Dhokra Cluster on an international tour to England, where he learned modern techniques to enhance the market appeal of Dhokra products.
Another notable artist, Golap Gadatia, a state design and merit awardee from Nuagaon, also shared her experience. Despite facing personal challenges, including caring for her bedridden husband, Gadatia continues to produce exquisite Dhokra pieces and regularly participates in state and national craft exhibitions. Her dedication to the craft serves as an inspiration to the community.
The visitors also toured the Sadeibareni Cluster House on Dhokra Craft, a facility built by the Dhenkanal district administration to support local artisans through exhibitions, meetings, and training programs. The cluster house has become a hub for artisans to showcase their work and collaborate on new projects.
While the visit highlighted the resilience and creativity of the artisans, participants expressed concern over the stagnant economic conditions of the craft community. Despite the global recognition of Dhokra art, the financial struggles of the artisans remain a significant challenge.
Notable participants in the heritage walk included DHW convener Suresh Prasad Mishra, Dr. Bhabani Shankar Mishra, Dr. Malay Pati, and several heritage lovers and researchers from various fields.
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