Crafts of Odisha: Applique work of Pipli

By Divyakshi Gupta

While going to Puri from Bhubaneswar, make a pit stop at Pipli, the town famous for Applique crafts.

Every street in Pipli is full of vibrant shops selling appliqué work products from umbrellas to bags to bedsheets.

Pipili is used to adorn the chariots of Lord Jagannath and his siblings during the annual Ratha Yatra in Puri.

The circular design is the traditional design and locally this craft is known as Chandua.

Pipili was set up as an artisan’s village during the Somavamsi dynasty rule in Odisha in the 10th Century AD.

Apart from traditional designs, one can find modern appliqué work products too.

As the craft is getting modernised, the artisans face a massive problem of competing with machine made products.

Interacting with local artists in Pipli is truly an enriching experience.

They explain the process and how different patches are made and assembled.

These coloured fabrics are then sewn to the surface of another foundation fabric. Stay tuned!