Indipur’s ‘Kansha Pitala’ Craft Struggles for Survival Amid Market Shift

Dhenkanal: Once celebrated for its exquisite kansha pitala (bronze-brass) utensils, Indipur village in Odisha’s Dhenkanal district is witnessing a slow decline of its centuries-old craft. A recent Dhenkanal Heritage Walk (DHW) to the village revealed a grim reality—without sustained patronage and support, this unique tradition may soon vanish.

For over 200 years, Indipur has held a special reputation for crafting distinctive “Petphula” utensils, prized across Odisha for their durability and fine workmanship. These utensils were not just household items but cultural symbols—integral to weddings, dowries, and everyday life. In times of hardship, families often mortgaged or sold them to overcome financial crises.

During the 29th edition of DHW, led by heritage patron Suresh Prasad Mishra, around 40 participants visited nearly 10 workshops and warehouses, engaging with artisans who still keep the tradition alive. Former sarpanch Raj Kishore Sahu coordinated the event, aptly titled “Kansha Pitala Walk.”

A Declining Tradition

The walk, however, brought to light a worrying trend. Once, hundreds of families in Indipur thrived on utensil-making. Today, only 30–40 families continue the craft. Spiraling raw material costs, low income despite hard labor, and shrinking demand have driven younger generations away.

Artisans expressed frustration that cheap steel and fiber utensils have replaced traditional bronze vessels in many households. While interest in heritage items is reviving among some urban buyers, the number of skilled craftsmen has drastically reduced.

A Call for Preservation

Heritage enthusiasts warned that without policy support, marketing platforms, and recognition, the craft could face extinction. “Indipur’s kansha pitala is not just a utensil—it is living heritage. Losing it would mean erasing a vital part of Odisha’s cultural identity,” one participant remarked.