Pipili, is a heritage craft village that’s famous for its exquisite applique work!
Now, you might be wondering what “applique work” is. Well, it’s a fancy French term for a technique in which different colored fabrics are cut into various shapes and designs and then sewn onto a base fabric. And let me tell you, the artisans in Pipili have taken this craft to a whole new level!
Their applique work is so stunning and intricate that it has even made an appearance in Bollywood movies! You might have seen it in the film Sui Dhaaga, starring Varun Dhawan and Anushka Sharma. But that’s not all – the applique work of Pipili is also used to adorn the chariots of Lord Jagannath and his siblings during the annual Ratha Yatra and other rituals associated with the Lord.
So, what can you expect to find in Pipili? Well, pretty much anything you can imagine! From wall hangings to lanterns, umbrellas to bags and pouches, bedspreads to pillow covers – you name it, they have it! And the best part is, you can meet the artisans who create these beautiful works of art and even chat with the friendly shopkeepers who sell them.
But Pipili isn’t just about shopping. It’s also a fascinating place to learn about the culture and history of Odisha. The village was set up during the Somavamsi dynasty rule in the 10th century, and the art of applique exemplifies the perfect syncretization of the state’s diverse cultures. And did I mention the food stalls? You won’t go hungry while browsing through the colorful shops and chatting with the locals.
So, what are you waiting for? Make a stopover at Pipili, just a kilometer from the National Highway 316 connecting Bhubaneswar and Puri, and discover the magic of applique work for yourself. Trust us, your friends and family will be impressed when they see the unique and vibrant souvenirs you bring back home. And who knows, you might just become a trendsetter in your own town!