New Delhi, May 22: Soumyaranjan Das, a palm leaf artist, believes that traditional art forms are finally receiving the global recognition they deserve. He credits this shift to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Discussing the growing international attention on Odisha’s palm leaf carving art, Das mentioned that while some may view Modi’s gifting of traditional handicrafts as a strategic move, artisans see it from a different perspective.
“For artisans like us, it serves as a medium to promote and expand our work and art,” Das stated. He added, “I don’t think the gifts PM Modi has given to foreign leaders are part of any agenda. ‘If PM Modi is involved, it’s possible,’ and that’s why our art is now recognized worldwide.”
He was responding to questions about how PM Modi’s gifts to foreign leaders reflect Indian traditions. Recently, during his visit to Norway, Modi presented specially selected Indian gifts to Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, King Harald, Queen Sonja, and Crown Prince Haakon. These gifts highlighted India’s rich artistic traditions, sustainable craftsmanship, and cultural heritage. Queen Sonja received a ‘Pattachitra’ artwork made from palm leaves, locally known as ‘Tala Pattachitra.’ This art form is one of Odisha’s oldest and most intricate artistic traditions. Unlike paintings on fabric, this style involves intricate carvings on specially prepared palm leaves from the ‘Pamira’ tree.
Renowned for its exquisite detail, Pattachitra art is often created as foldable panels or strips connected by threads. It combines storytelling, calligraphy, and traditional painting in a single artistic expression.
The natural texture and fine craftsmanship reflect the patience and creativity of artisans from Odisha’s communities, passed down through generations.
Das noted that the promotion of Odisha’s traditional palm leaf art has opened new opportunities for artisans who previously struggled to establish their identity. According to him, this art form has received significant appreciation worldwide in recent years.
“This is undoubtedly a way to promote our culture and traditional art,” he remarked. “In the past, hardly anyone paid attention to this art, but today we are receiving very positive responses from around the globe. PM Modi has become a conduit through which Odisha’s culture and traditional arts are reaching a global platform.”
–
S.A.K./D.K.P.
Leave a Comment