In a remarkable display of skill and heritage, terracotta artisans from Odisha have etched their names into the World Book of Records by setting two groundbreaking milestones in clay production.
The event, held at Kalabhoomi, saw an unprecedented 1,000 clay artisans participating simultaneously, claiming the record for the highest number of participants in such a competition. Adding to the triumph, seven artisans surpassed the previous global benchmark of 212 clay items produced in one hour, with the top performer crafting an astonishing 310 pieces.
The competition was inaugurated by Odisha’s Minister for Handlooms, Textiles, and Handicrafts, Pradeep Bal Samanta, who praised the artisans as “torchbearers of Odisha’s history, culture, and tradition.” Addressing the gathering, he highlighted the significance of terracotta and pottery as symbols of the state’s rich handicraft legacy and expressed immense pride in their achievements. Following the event, the Minister personally felicitated the record-breaking artisans.
Sebak Rana from Bargarh district clinched first place by producing 310 clay glasses in just one hour. Close behind were Madhab Muduli of Nayagarh with 248 items, Than Sundar Rana of Balangir with 232, Ramesh Chandra Muduli of Balasore with 230, Bijay Behera of Angul with 227, Basant Rana of Balangir with 219, and Makar Ketan Sahu of Kendrapara with 218. This collective feat eclipsed the prior record held by Michael Weber of the United States, who had produced 212 items.
Commissioner-cum-Secretary to the Handlooms, Textiles, and Handicrafts (HTH) Department, Guha Poonam Tapas Kumar, emphasized the state’s efforts under the “Vocal for Local” campaign to promote indigenous crafts. She noted that among Odisha’s 64 recognized handicrafts, terracotta and pottery are among the most ancient, supporting over 36,000 artisans across more than 40 craft clusters.
The event drew distinguished guests, including Handicrafts Director Dr. Nivedita Prusti, Padma Shri awardee Binod Maharana, National Award-winning terracotta artisans Manabodh Rana and Mukunda Rana, SIDAC Member Secretary Chinmayee Biswal, and representatives from the World Book of Records such as Vice President Rajeev Srivastava, Director Rajesh Shukla, Joint Secretary Mamata Nayak, and Deputy Director Managobinda Jena.
This achievement not only celebrates Odisha’s artisanal prowess but also underscores the enduring vitality of traditional crafts in a modern world.
