Bhubaneswar: Around 380 terracotta and pottery artisans from 26 districts of Odisha are showcasing their traditional crafts at the state-level annual exhibition ‘Mruttika-2026’, which began at the IDCO Exhibition Ground in Bhubaneswar on Sunday.
Organised by the Department of Handlooms, Textiles and Handicrafts ahead of Diwali, the exhibition aims to provide artisans with a common platform to display and market their products. It will continue till November 6, with 218 stalls set up this year. The exhibition will remain open daily from 11 am to 9 pm.
Inaugurating the exhibition, Handlooms, Textiles and Handicrafts Minister Pradip Bal Samanta said terracotta and pottery represent Odisha’s ancient craft traditions. He said the state government was committed to supporting artisans and ensuring the growth of these traditional crafts.
To facilitate participation, the department has provided free stalls to all artisans. It is also extending assistance towards travel expenses, daily allowances and transportation of their products.
Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the department Guha Poonam Tapas Kumar said the exhibition seeks to bring terracotta and pottery artisans under one roof and provide them with a commercial platform to expand their businesses.
₹3 crore business turnover expected
The exhibition is expected to generate business worth more than ₹3 crore this year. Cultural programmes will be organised every evening to attract visitors, while a special theme pavilion showcases the journey and evolution of terracotta handicrafts.
During the inauguration, the Minister and the Commissioner-cum-Secretary visited various stalls and interacted with artisans about their craft, experiences and earnings. Artisans shared their experiences of working in the terracotta sector and the income generated through their year-round handicraft businesses.
According to the department, more than 44,000 artisans in Odisha depend on terracotta and pottery crafts for their livelihood. These crafts are among the prominent traditional forms included in the 64 handicrafts recognised by the state government.
Director of Handicrafts Nibedita Pushti, Special Secretary Bikramaditya Barik, Special Officer Indira Behera, Joint Secretary Mamata Nayak, Financial Advisor Madhusmita Behera, Deputy Director of Handicrafts Managobinda Jena and other departmental officials were present at the inaugural ceremony.
