Paralakhemundi horn work losing edge

Srikakulam: Horn works of Paralakhemundi are unique in many aspects. A variety of artifacts are made of animal horn reflecting the dexterity of craftsmen. According to historical evidence, the origin of this exquisite art form dates back to the reign of Paralakhemundi kings. Maharaja of Paralakhemundi Krushna Chandra Gajapati Narayan Deo got a prime place in the rich history of the region, who was the direct descendant of the Eastern Ganga dynasty which ruled Odisha for more than seven centuries.

Kolahomee, one of the sons of Kapilendra Deo, the Gajapati king of Odisha, founded the Raja family of Paralakhemundi in the latter half of the 15th Century. During their regime, artisans from Pithala in Ganjam district, migrated to Paralakhemundi due to great patronage for horn works. Craftsmen engaged in horn works are called Maharanas. The art form is a major cottage industry in the region providing livelihood to hundreds of craftsmen. Horn replaced ivory as a medium for the art works with the decline in elephant population in Odisha forests with the passage of time.

The horn work includes a variety of animals such as cranes, birds, lobsters, scorpions, idols and scenes from the great epics. These handmade decorative pieces have good demand in the domestic market and are also exported to many countries. The Palace Street in Paralakhemundi is famous for horn works as it houses a number of shops.

The ancient craft is slowly losing its glow of late. This is largely attributed to lack of adequate support from the government, curbs on procurement of animal horns, new guidelines for exports and non remunerative prices Horns need to be heated first to carve them into desired shape. Artisans are more prone to respiratory problems due to continuous exposure to heat and smoke.

Hence, some of the craftsmen engaged in making the unique pieces are slowly leaving their age old art due to health reasons. “Urgent measures need to be taken by the governments of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha to preserve the unique art form as it faces extinction in the two States”,' said a Maharana.

By MA Raju