On the cultural canvas of India, the village of Raghurajpur is a master stroke. The quaint huts and palm groves shelter microcosms of unrivalled artistic heritage. No where in the world does one get to see such an assemblage of artworks in one single place, other than in this unique village situated in the state of Odisha. Thatched and brick houses having high plinths with sit-out platforms serve as outdoor studios where artists are seen engrossed in intricate detailing.
Thick groves of coconut, palm, mango, jack fruit…paddy fields dotted with betel vines, and the river Bhargavi flowing by… this idyllic backdrop befits the creative leanings of the artisan village. Each family is engaged in nurturing the art legacy of their ancestoThick groves of coconut, palm, mango, jack fruit…paddy fields dotted with betel vines, and the river Bhargavi flowing by… this idyllic backdrop befits the creative leanings of the artisan village. Each family is engaged in nurturing the art legacy of their ancestors. No doubt, the Pattachitra stands out conspicuously as an accomplishment in exquisite workmanship, but the buck does not stop here… an array of other craft items - palm leaf inscriptions, stone and wood carvings, papier mache, sodhai work, mural painting, wooden and cow dung toys, filigree, applique, terracotta - are created and proudly displayed in the dainty households.
Alongside, the Gotipua Gurukul Academy has nurtured Raghurajpur's illustrious Odissi dance tradition of Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra. The rows of houses facing each other are entwined with a series of temples, the village square and the community meeting place. A strong religious current runs through the village. Along with the local deity, Bhuasuni, all the major Hindu gods are revered in the village.
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