Jute shines at Bali Yatra

CUTTACK: Jute conjures up images of dull storage sacks. But the jute pavilion at Bali Yatra has sprung a few surprises like trendy bags, ethnic jewellery, footwear and decorative items. And, these designer items are a big hit with the visitors. "This is the first time I have come across such designer products crafted in jute. These jewellery are trendy, elegant and cheap, and can be worn with any attire," said Silpa Sahoo, a college-goer.
The special jute pavilion was set up at the fair by Orissa Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS) to popularize and promote jute products. It also showcases wall hangings and household items made by 35 artisans from Kantapada, Narsinghpur, Tangi and Cuttack.
"The products have received an overwhelming response from customers. As polythene bags are banned at the Bali Yatra, jute bags are selling like hotcakes. The traditional dolls and decorative items also have a huge demand," said Sashirekha Barik, a jute artisan. If shaving kits, wallets and office bags are an instant hit with men, designer jewellery and traditional jute toys take the cake when it comes to women and children respectively.
ORMAS has also imparted special training to artisans to craft these durable and bio-degradable designer jute products. "We have trained over 150 artisans in Cuttack district to make jute products. We are also encouraging them to use their creativity in giving a fashionable touch to jute. Our efforts have borne fruits as the products are a big hit with the Bali Yatra crowd," chief executive of ORMAS (Cuttack) Bipin Rout said.
The overwhelming response has also encouraged artisans to add more variety to their collections. "People have a notion that jute products are old fashioned. But that's not true. Customers are thronging my stall to buy these products. After participating in the fair we got an idea about the requirements of the people and this will definitely help us to expand our business," said Kartik Behera, a jute artisan.