Appliqué Craft of Pipili

Puri is one of the four holiest places (4 dhams) for Hindus and Jagannath is the reigning deity of Puri. Lord Jagannath's rituals are more of the nature of the daily routine of human being. So fans, umbrellas etc are used to save the lord from scorching heat of Sun or the rough weather. And of course these can not be your regular fans or umbrellas. These are very colourful and are specially made using the applique craft of Pipili. In fact in Chandan yatra, which is one of the yearly events of the Jagannath temple the entire procession is taken out displaying and covering the deities with chattris of appliqué work. Appliqué in Orissa is an inseparable part of temple art and craft, which has been refined to perfection. Shamianas, canopies, umbrellas, lamp shaded, fans made in appliqué process are used extensively in festivities.

Appliqué craft is the process of cutting colored clothes into shapes of animals, birds, flowers, leaves and other decorative motifs and stitching them on a piece of cloth, that can ultimately be used as a lamp shade, a hand bag or even a garden umbrella. Decorative wall hangings and letter holders are also made using this craft. The color, cutting and stitching style along with the themes make this appliqué work very unique. The village of Pipili close to Bhubaneswar, is the site of beautiful appliqué work, created by artists, quite a few of whom have won national award for their craft. This craft form has now also mixed with modern day lives by including subjects like Mickey mouse and other Disneyland characters. However it has not been able to match up to the charm of traditional designs.

Besides being used in the religious function, with the touch of a little modernity, garments of varied designs are also made using this craft. Garments and accessories like purse, handbags etc. are in great demand among tourists. Curtains and bed sheets with appliqué touch are also being made depicting the different characters of religious myth for decoration of houses. But the best selling products are the lamp shades, garden umbrellas and wall hangings. In particular the lamp shades are a big hit as they create a lovely ambience, with or without a bulb in it. And it has a lot of designs and prices to choose from.

Don’t forget to check out our collection of unique appliqué lamp shades , wall hangings, bags and cushion covers.

Trivia
One 54 Mtr. Long Appliqué work based on theme of "Struggle for Independence in India " recognized by LIMKA BOOK RECORDS 2004 as 'Longest Thematic Appliqué.