Bhubaneswar: Artist Ushasi Rath’s “Kathi Kandhei” (toys made from sugar palm tree leaves) creations have drawn the attention of the visitors to the fading craftmanship at the Ekamra Utsav in Bhubaneswar.
Ushasi, a native of Puri, had spent several years in Dubai but her love for Odia culture never wavered. On returning home, she dedicated her life to preserving the state’s rich cultural heritage.
She embarked on a mission to revive fading tradition of crafting Kathi Kandhei of her hometown. Her passion for art and women’s empowerment led her to train local women, including widows and those from slums, in the intricate art of making these toys.
Through her initiative, Ushasi not only empowered the women but also revived a significant part of Odisha’s rich craftmanship.
The Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA), which is organising the Ekamra Utsav, allowed Ushasi to open a stall in the Flea Market to showcase her creations. The BDA’s initiative aimed at promoting Odisha’s heritage and culture by providing a platform to the artisans to bring their creations to the public.
