Give The Artisans of Odisha A Lifeline During The Pandemic

Where there is art, there is joy. For thousands of years, the folk artisans of Raghurajpur, near Puri in Odisha, have kept indigenous art alive through their work. These artisans painstakingly create intricate works of art depicting folklore and mythology using natural colours and materials.

In this quaint village, the artisans practise an ancient form of folk art called Pattachitra (Patta means cloth, Chitra means painting). Pattachitra is indigenous to Odisha, where it serves as decorative art as well as narrative devices that tell detailed stories of mythology and folklore. These cloth scrolls are often used in temples such as the Jagganath temple and other prominent temples in Puri.

When the Coronavirus pandemic hit, these artisans were severely affected. Their main source of income is tourism and with indefinite travel restrictions and stay-at-home orders, they’ve had to watch their income dwindle down to next to nothing. Many have families to feed and support. In the midst of a pandemic, nutrition and food security are vital to staying healthy and preventing the spread of infections. 

Every house in this village is adorned with fascinating artwork that brings our history and folklore to life. Without them, these art forms will be lost to time and with it, will go a part of our culture and history. The beauty and craftsmanship of these artisans has attracted tourists and art enthusiasts from all over the country and across the world to visit Raghurajpur in Odisha. 

Rural Retreats is stepping up to help the artisans and chitrakars of Raghurajpur. We are working to provide them with basic essential groceries to help them make it through these tough times. Rural Retreats is committed to sustainable tourism and helping rural communities keep their livelihoods and culture alive. 

By donating, you can help us provide essential rations to 300+ chitrakars and their families. They have dedicated their lives to keeping art and culture thriving, it’s now our turn to help them thrive. 

Donate now to give Pattachitra chitrakars a lifeline.

About Rural Retreat - Rural Retreats creates authentic travel experiences that allow tourists to explore rural communities and cultures across India. They design eco-friendly and community-based travel experiences that highlight and preserve rural communities, their art, culture, and way of life. Rural Retreats is committed to sustainable tourism where both tourists and the places they visit benefit from the experience and enrich each other’s lives. They aim to help people reconnect to history and nature while helping to sustain and grow rural communities.

Note: All the donations towards this campaign is eligible for Indian Tax Exemption.