Bhubaneswar, Oct. 21: With the feel of ethnicity, the range of earthenware products displayed at Mruttika, an exposition of Odisha terracotta, is a treat to the eyes.

The fair, organised by the directorate of handicrafts and cottage industries at Exhibition Ground, began yesterday and will end on October 27.

The exposition is an attraction for the crowds, who are coming in large numbers to give a festive makeover to their homes ahead of Diwali.

Various kinds of diyas and lamps used for lighting during Diwali, made by traditional artisans of the state, have been displayed here. The diyas are available in shapes of animals, butterflies and flowers, along with incense stick-holders, lamps and small containers for tea lights. One can buy a diya for Rs 20 and in Rs 100 one can buy a dozen.

Around 70 kiosks have been put up at the exposition with terracotta items by 150 artisans from over 18 districts of the state, including Balasore, Khurda, Jagatpur, Keonjhar and Nabarangpur.

Pabitra Muduli of Nayagarh district, who has been making terracotta products since 1990, said the art form had survived the test of time. "The advent of glass and wrought iron products has failed to dent the popularity of terracotta goods. We have innovated on the designs of our craft to cater the taste of people."

Another highlight of the exhibition are the flower vases available in various heights. One can buy huge flower vases measuring a few feet. Hanging flowerpots are also being sold. Terracotta versions of traditional vessels such as the urli are drawing a lot of attention from the visitors.

Earthenware utensils, including chapatti tawas, pots and cookers, are available at the exposition at reasonable prices. "The clay vessels are made in such a way that they could be easily used over modern gas burners. It not only makes cooking faster, but also retains the nutritive value of the food. Modern homes might not opt for these, but they could be used for serving and storing purposes," said Makar Ketan Sahoo, an artisan from Kendrapara.

To enhance the beauty of garden or lawn, one can also shop for terracotta pots, birdbaths, statuettes and figurines of animals and birds. "Terracotta items are very environment-friendly. I have a lot of ideas to decorate my garden from the items available here. They are attractive, especially the pots for birds," said Ananya Baliarsingh, a bank employee. Earrings and necklaces made of terracotta and beads have become a hit with the customers.

Last year, the exposition did a business of Rs 68 lakh. "We are expecting a profit of around Rs 80 lakh this year. The government has taken several initiatives and arranged meetings with the artisans on how to utilise technology and broaden the market of their goods," said state handlooms, textiles and handicraft secretary Chitra Arumugam.