A snapshot of a pattachitra made in Odisha being sold on eBay

Bhubaneshwar, Nov. 20: Traditional handicraft items will now become easily accessible to the global audience with a popular shopping portal coming forward to make them available online to people in 39 countries.

In a major boost to traditional artisans, Utkalika and Odisha State Cooperative Handicraft Corporation Limited have joined hands with the popular online shopping site, eBay, to cater to the needs of the global customers.

A large number of stone sculptures, including Buddha and Devadasi statues, will be available for sale on the website. Customers can also order pattachitra paintings and appliqué work products such as umbrellas and home decor items.

Tribal jewellery, including green and hard stones, will also be available. Customers can choose from an array of products the cost of which will range between Rs 5,000 and Rs 50,00,000.

Craftsmen are happy with the decision and feel that the initiative will increase their employment opportunities. “Hopefully we will get more orders, hence more craftsmen will be engaged to meet the target. Moreover, the feeling that people from across the world can see and buy our items is great,” said Saroj Kumar Rout, a sculptor from Cuttack.

Along with broadening the customer base, this would also help in showcasing the crafts of Odisha on an international platform.

“Our handcraft products have got a good demand in foreign countries since many tourists visiting India often ask if we have any franchises in their countries. With online shopping creating a lot of buzz these days, we feel this tie-up will widen our reach,” said Gayatri, managing director, Utkalika.

Navin Mistry, head of retail exports, eBay India, says that there is also a demand for such items among Indians settled abroad.

“For non-resident Indians this is a golden opportunity to own products from their country, and particularly from Odisha,” said Mistry.

Handicraft items are an integral part of Odisha’s rich cultural heritage. Once the mainstay of maritime trade, they are now popular across the globe. The various types of handicrafts made in the state, include pattachitra, silver filigree, stone carving, appliqué work, woodcarving and mask making.