The applique work craft has craved a special place of its own among the handicrafts of Odisha. The distinctive style of Appliqué embroidery is a specialty of the ‘ Darji ‘ (Tailor) community of Pipli, Puri district, Odisha. Originally used in festivals, now find a way into our home too. The craft involves embroidering and stitching of small pieces of colored cloth with motifs of flowers, animals, village scene and traditional designs on to a larger base cloth. The cloth used for patch as well as base is cotton with different color combinations. The usual appliqué patchwork items are Garden Umbrellas, Wallets, Wall Hangings, Lampshades, Pouches & Bags etc. Appliqué & Patchwork has been diversified into many utilitarian items like bed sheets, cushion covers, file folders etc. The women artisans dominate applique manufacturing. In addition to manufacturing, the appliqué trade has employed a large number of rural women artisans of Orissa.
I strongly believe that handicrafts are more than just beautiful objects—they are the soul of our culture, the voice of our tradition, and the hands of our people at work. My vision is to build a platform that not only preserves traditional crafts but also opens new doors of opportunity for people who possess creativity, passion, and a deep love for handmade art.
In a world dominated by machines and mass production, I want to create space for artisans, especially those whose talents often go unnoticed. I dream of employing more individuals who bring original ideas, artistic flair, and cultural depth to their work. By giving them the right support, fair income, and a sense of purpose, we can revive dying art forms and give new life to our rural and urban communities alike.
This is not just about making products—it’s about building lives, nurturing talent, and shaping a future where creativity is valued and celebrated. Through my venture in handicrafts, I aim to turn every stitch, brushstroke, and weave into a step toward empowerment, dignity, and sustainable livelihood.
My dream is to reach every corner of the world with the beauty, richness, and soul of my culture and art. Through each creation, I aim to tell the timeless stories of our traditions, the craftsmanship of our people, and the values we hold dear.
Whether it’s through intricate handwork, vibrant colors, or meaningful motifs, I believe art is a universal language that connects hearts beyond borders. My mission is to inspire curiosity, preserve heritage, and foster appreciation for our cultural legacy—one piece at a time, from village roots to a global stage.
From a young age, I was captivated by the vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and timeless stories woven into every handmade item. Handicrafts were not just art for me—they were a living tradition, a way to preserve culture and tell stories that words could never fully express. What began as a personal passion slowly grew into a deeper purpose: to keep our heritage alive and share it with the world.
As I explored the diverse crafts of my region—from the delicate stitches of Pipili appliqué work to the mythological tales painted in Pattachitra—I felt a strong connection to my roots. Each craft carried generations of wisdom, discipline, and devotion. I spent years learning, experimenting, and honoring the skills passed down by artisans before me.
Turning my passion into a profession was not just a career move—it was a calling. I founded my handicraft initiative to bridge traditional artistry with contemporary design, creating products that speak to modern audiences while preserving their ethnic soul. Whether it’s a hand-stitched bag, a painted wall hanging, or a temple-inspired decor piece, every item I craft is a tribute to our rich culture, truth, trust, and time.
Today, my goal is to take this cultural narrative to every corner of the world—to inspire, to educate, and to celebrate the beauty of Indian handicrafts. Through my work, I aim not only to empower local artisans but also to invite others to experience the timeless charm of handmade art.
Appliqué’, which is a French term, is a technique by which the decorative effect is obtained by superposing patches of coloured fabrics on a base fabric, the edges of the patches being sewn in some form of stitchery. It is distinct from what is known as patch work in which small pieces of cut fabrics are usually joined side by side to make a large piece of fabric or for repairing a damaged fabric. Though the form is not unknown in other parts of India, it is Odisha and especially in Pipli that the craft has a living and active tradition continuing over centuries.
The basic material for appliqué is cloth. The base cloth is usually coloured. Some of the specially prepared motifs have exclusive embroidery work and some have glass bead work. In heavy canopies, the base cloth is additionally supported by a back cloth for strength. Without elaborating the preparation method of appliqué, we briefly mention broad steps and processes applied for appliqué making. Broadly the appliqué making starts with procurement of raw material and encompasses three major processes i.e. (i) the motif making (ii) cutting and (iii) stitching.
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