The rare golden grass craft

Golden grass craft is a nature lover's delight. A lot of household and decorative items are made using dried grass which becomes yellow and golden in colour. The grass is made of 'Khus Khus' stem. It is sturdy and can be bent to any shape to be turned into items of household use like baskets, boxes, mats, coasters, pen holders, wall hangings etc.

Depending on the size and intricacy, each of the handicraft items takes anywhere between a day to a month to complete. Sometimes a little colour is added to the grass to create interest in the design. But generally the natural golden sheen of the dried grass itself makes it look very bright and attractive. This craft was widely practiced in Orissa till about 40-50 years back as a lot of utility stuff was made using this craft. But as is the story everywhere, due to industrialization this craft also became almost extinct within no time. It was then left to the effort of some individuals and NGO's who tried to revive this craft by giving it a wider market. This craft has been saved, but only just. Only a few pockets like Jajanga village near Kendrapada and Jajapur, in Orissa now practice this craft. Though it is still living, but its future is uncertain.

This craft has got great aesthetic appeal and conforms to 100% natural living. Its because of this reason there is optimism that this craft will also survive the test of time, but as of now it is a rare craft. Its available only locally in different parts of Orissa. It is still trying to establish its market in India itself.

Perhaps the Government can push this village to become an arts-n-crafts village like Raghurajpur and include it in a tourist circuit. In fact this craft should be marketed better because of its rarity and appeal. The craft and the products are great, it only needs to be marketed well.