Bhubaneswar, Sep 6: In a tribute to Odisha’s centuries-old bell metal craftsmanship, Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo on Saturday unveiled a groundbreaking publication titled “Kansa: Forging Traditions, Shaping Futures” at a special event organized by MGM Foundation and Bhubaneswar Experimental Art and Design Studio (BEADS).

The book, a result of five months of intensive field research across 18 craft villages, documents the practices, techniques, and personal stories of master artisans whose skills are on the brink of extinction. The event was attended by prominent figures including former MP Tathagata Satpathy and Chairman & Managing Director of MGM Group Pankaj Lochan Mohanty, alongside artists, scholars, and craft enthusiasts.

Preserving a Dying Art Form
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy CM Singh Deo praised the initiative, stating, “Through this book, the MGM Group has made sincere efforts to save the dying art and its legacy for future generations.” The publication aims to raise awareness about the urgent need to preserve Kansa (bell metal) crafts, which are increasingly being replaced by mass-produced aluminium items.

On his part, Mohanty emphasized the cultural and economic value of bell metal items, urging people not to discard damaged pieces but to recognize their potential as valuable antiques. He added, “This book is a significant step in reviving and safeguarding the craft, ensuring its rich heritage continues to inspire.”

Craftsmen’s Stories and Cultural Continuity
The book also highlights the struggles of traditional craftsmen, the erosion of generational knowledge, and the importance of passing these skills to younger artisans. Experts at the event expressed hope that the documentation would spark policy support and public interest in protecting Odisha’s craft heritage.

Published in both English and Odia, the book is part of the Odisha Craft Odyssey (OCO) Fellowship Programme 2024–25, and serves as a comprehensive record of living traditions, techniques, and community narratives.