Artisan Stories List

“I feel so happy when I can pay for my child’s school fees on my own, or when he asks me to make him an elephant toy to play with,” says Binapani Sahoo.

Amiyo, a visionary artist, harbors a dream of transforming villages of Nimapada, Odisha, into thriving hubs of creativity. His childhood, marked by hardship and adversity, fueled his determination to uplift his community. Despite facing poverty and the challenges of caring for a paralyzed father, Amiyo’s spirit remained unbroken. At a young age, he began his artistic journey, learning various crafts like Coir, Applique, Jute, Papier-mâché, and Pattachitra to escape poverty and carve a better life for his family. Coir craft, for which raw material was easily available in the coconut rich belt of Sakhigopal, captured Amiyo’s heart. He spent years developing his artistic style and soon his dedication and talent were recognized with the prestigious Kala Kruti Samman in 2018.

This award became a turning point in his life, and Amiyo realized art could be the means through which he could help villagers escape living hand to mouth. By mentoring and motivating women from neighboring villages to learn the craft, he fostered a network of over 200 skilled artisans and spread over six villages. These women, once confined to domestic roles, now contribute to their families’ livelihoods and the cultural richness of their communities. “I feel so happy when I can pay for my child’s school fees on my own, or when he asks me to make him an elephant toy to play with,” says Binapani Sahoo, one of the many women in the village who have gained financial freedom.

When asked about his unwavering commitment, Amiyo credits his mother Protima Poddar, an accomplished applique artist, as his primary source of inspiration. According to him, there were times when his family struggled to afford basic necessities like education, clothing, and even food. His mother, the sole breadwinner, endured countless hardships. This is why he seeks to empower women, ensuring that no one faces the same hardships as his mother and sister. His remarkable achievements were acknowledged in 2021 with the State Award of Master Craftsman for Coir Craft Toys, a first in this category.

Right now Amiyo is working with the woman artisans of five individual villages , each with its own distinct crafts (coir, jute, palm leaf, and applique craft). By introducing travelers to extraordinary individuals like Amiyo and the women artists of these villages, we hope to inspire and uplift both the artisans and the visitors. This authentic and sustainable travel experience allows guests to connect meaningfully with the heart of rural India, imparting them with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for traditional crafts and the people who keep them alive.

Amiyo can be reached at +91 97775 24939.

Storytelling credits : Indrani and Soumya from Svanir Experiences — Documenting artisan stories in Odisha.