A radiant display during Ratha Yatra

The pinnacle of Pipili’s artistry shines during the Ratha Yatra – the annual chariot festival. The three majestic chariots carrying Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are swathed in appliqué covers. Each chariot follows a predetermined colour scheme: bright green and red for Taladhawaja (Balabhadra’s chariot), bright red and black for Padmadhwaja (Subhadra’s chariot), and bright red and yellow for Nadighosha (Lord Jagannath’s chariot). These vibrant covers protect the deities as they traverse the streets, invoking awe and reverence.

Crafting everyday essentials

Pipili artisans, while rooted in tradition, also cater to modern needs. They create everyday essentials, such as small pouches, favoured by villagers for storing betel leaves, showcasing their practical ingenuity. Sujnis, embroidered quilts, provide warmth and comfort. Thanks to design workshops, modern adaptations have emerged, including hanging lamps, big umbrellas, bags, cushion covers, and bed sheets – a testament to the craft's adaptability and its ability to blend tradition with contemporary needs, making it relevant and accessible to all.