Archive · 23 Sep 2025
Odisha's Bronze-Brass Craft Faces Extinction
In Odisha, the traditional craft of making bronze-brass utensils is disappearing.
These utensils, once common in every household, are being replaced by stainless steel.
This craft, practiced for over 200 years in Indipur village, is struggling because of rising costs and lack of support.
Demand was high in the past, even used for gifts and in times of need.
A recent heritage walk highlighted the issue, but the craft's future remains uncertain as fewer families continue the practice.
Bronze-brass utensil making is declining in Odisha's Dhenkanal district.
These utensils were once a common part of daily life but are now replaced by stainless steel.
Indipur village is known for its unique bronze-brass utensils, known as "Petphula".
The craft has seen a significant decline, with fewer families involved now.
A heritage walk was organized to highlight the issue and show the bronze-brass vessel-making techniques.
- Who
- Artisans in Dhenkanal district, Odisha.
- What
- The bronze-brass utensil craft is on the verge of extinction.
- When
- The decline has been gradual, especially since the seventies and eighties.
- Where
- Indipur village, Dhenkanal district, Odisha.
- Why
- Due to a lack of governmental support and increased costs, alongside the popularity of stainless steel alternatives.
- Location
- Dhenkanal district, Odisha, India
- Craft
- Bronze-brass utensil making
- Traditional Name
- Kansha Pitala
- Key Village
- Indipur
- Decline Factor
- Rise in costs and lack of patronage
- Heritage walk organizer
- Raj Kishore Sahu