Introduction Kalinga Nagar, an industrial region in Jajpur district of Odisha, has undergone significant transformation due to rapid industrialization. The displacement of tribal communities in this region has not only disrupted their traditional livelihoods but also endangered their rich heritage of tribal art and craft. These art forms—rooted in nature, folklore, and ritualistic practices—are now…
Introduction Talabasta village in the Banki sub-division of Cuttack district, Odisha, is home to traditional artisans skilled in cane weaving and terracotta pottery. These eco-friendly crafts represent Odisha’s rich heritage and offer significant livelihood opportunities. However, the artisans face multiple challenges in terms of raw material, market access, and skill enhancement. Haven Crafts, a social…
Introduction The soft toys craft of Baleshwar, Odisha, is a lesser-known but promising livelihood activity that has been practiced in small pockets by women and youth from economically weaker sections. Using simple tools, fabrics, stuffing materials, and creative stitching techniques, local artisans craft a variety of soft toys including animals, dolls, and utility-based items like…
Introduction Golden Grass, locally known as Kaincha, is a naturally occurring wild grass found in the marshy regions of Odisha, particularly in districts like Jajpur, Kendrapara, and Jagatsinghpur. Upon drying, this grass attains a golden hue, making it ideal for crafting a variety of eco-friendly products such as baskets, mats, coasters, hats, and decorative items….
Introduction Haven Crafts, a social enterprise dedicated to the empowerment and upliftment of traditional artisans, conducted a field-level engagement in Hadapada village, located in the Khurda district of Odisha. Known for its legacy in stone carving, the village holds generations of skilled artisans who continue to struggle due to lack of systemic support. The objective…
Introduction Haven Crafts is a social enterprise founded by Rakhi Jain to empower traditional artisans, especially in Odisha, by addressing their economic, health, and livelihood challenges. Through grassroots-level engagement, product innovation, training, and policy advocacy, Haven Crafts strives to give artisans the recognition, dignity, and safety they rightfully deserve. Our field visits, interactions with Self-Help…
Pattachitra, meaning “cloth painting,” is one of the oldest and most treasured art forms of Odisha. Originating in the heritage village of Raghurajpur, near Puri, this craft dates back over a thousand years. Traditionally used to depict stories of Lord Jagannath, Ramayana, Mahabharata, and regional folklore, it is known for its bold lines, natural colors,…
History and Cultural Evolution Sabai grass craft is deeply embedded in the tribal traditions of Northern Odisha, especially within the Mayurbhanj and Baleshwar districts. Sabai Grass was primarily used for rope-making and served as raw material for paper production. Over time, local communities began crafting utilitarian items such as baskets, mats, and coasters. Local communities,…
Introduction: Haven Crafts is a purpose-driven social enterprise founded by Rakhi Jain, a young entrepreneur and craft enthusiast. Deeply inspired by Odisha’s rich artisan heritage, Rakhi launched Haven Crafts to empower traditional artisans through modern design, market access, and digital storytelling. Though studying abroad, Rakhi’s commitment to India’s grassroots culture led her to create a…
Introduction Haven Crafts, a social enterprise led by Rakhi Jain, dedicated to the preservation and promotion of traditional artisan crafts in Odisha, has undertaken an in-depth assessment of the Jute Craft Sector across various districts of the state. As part of its mission to empower women artisans and promote sustainable livelihoods, Haven Crafts has closely…