Odisha is known for its rich cultural heritage and the rich legacy of handicrafts that have stood the test of time. From the stone carvings of its famous temples to patachitra artworks, to colourful pipli applique work, this eastern Indian state has been home to a wide range of art and crafts for centuries. One such ancient craft is the famous Rupa Tarakasi, the silver filigree work of Cuttack in Odisha. This handicraft has recently received the geographical indication (GI) tag. The Odisha State Cooperative Handicrafts Corporation Limited applied for the GI tag which signifies unique characteristics and qualities of products originating from a specific geographical region.

The Art Of The Craft

Tarakasi is one of Odisha's most stunning handicrafts. The word "tara" in Odia means wire, while "kasi" means design. This handicraft involves cutting silver bricks into thin wires or foils to create jewellery and showpieces. Tarakasi ornaments are perfect for any occasion, but the wide range of artefacts available, including floral and animal shapes, boxes and containers, tiny boats, and figurines, can also be used for interior decoration or as gifts. The delicate silver wires are beaten and shaped into various objects, from jewellery and ornaments to intricate items such as peacocks, boxes, and even the Sun deity riding his chariot pulled by seven horses. Tarakasi craftsmen have even decorated idols of the goddess Durga with their exquisite workmanship.

Crafting a beautiful piece of tarakasi work is an incredibly intricate process that requires a high level of precision, patience, and skillful handwork. First, silver is melted in a mold and poured into a narrow tray. Then, it is pounded on an anvil and lengthened into a taar (thin wire) using a steel plate wire gauge. The wire is so thin that it needs to be soldered together, squeezed, and flattened before being twisted into extraordinary designs. Dancers in Odissi, one of India's principal classical dances, wear tarakasi work ornaments on their heads, ears, necks, hands, fingers, and waist. Tarakasi items were highly coveted as gifts for kings and distinguished guests.

The Origins

It is not clear where the filigree art in Cuttack originated, but it is known to have existed since the 12th century. The Mughals provided significant support for this art form. As Cuttack changed hands over time, the silver filigree art evolved over the years. The Odisha government submitted a document to the GI registry, which contains more information on this topic: “The silver filigree work in which the people of Cuttack have attained such surprising skill and delicacy is identical in character with that of Arabia, Malta, Genoa, Norway, Sweden and Denmark, and with the filigree work of ancient Greece, Byzantium, and Etruria, and was probably carried into the West by the Phoenicians and Arabs, and into Scandinavia by the Normans and in the course also of the medieval trade between Turkestan and Russia.“