Mastering the Unconventional: Himanshu Pandia's Dual Artistry in Bonsai and Gourd
- Sumana Mukherjee
- Oct 1
- 2 min read
Updated: Nov 3
Story by Indrani & Soumya, Svanir Experiences
Himanshu Shekhar Pandia is a visionary artist and master craftsman who holds a unique honor: he is the only artist to have introduced two entirely new art forms to his state in his lifetime.
His talent for creating beautiful art from waste was evident from a very young age. While working at Pidilite, long before the bonsai technique was widely known in India, Himanshu pioneered a new art form. Using nothing but waste materials; chalk powder, wires, synthetic cloth, color, and gum he began crafting stunning artificial bonsai trees.
He fondly remembers a state exhibition where the former Chief Minister of Odisha, Sri Naveen Patnaik, visited his stall and was stunned by his work. When Himanshu asked for an autograph, the CM willingly wrote one in Odia. Overjoyed, Himanshu jokingly requested he also write his full name in English, so his wife would believe him. The Chief Minister smiled and obliged. For Himanshu, that was one of the best days of his life.
He dedicated 14 years to this craft before a new inspiration called. During a visit to his village while working as a sales representative, he saw a hermit drinking water from a strange object: a hollowed, dried gourd. Fascinated, he began researching how these gourds were traditionally used and saw their potential to be transformed into art. This was the beginning of his second great contribution: the Tumba craft of Odisha.
The journey was tough. "There were days when I was down to my last bit of savings," he recalls. Initially, his innovation was so unique that he wasn't even allowed to set up stalls at craft bazaars. But with perseverance and help from a few well-wishers in the government, he gained recognition. After years of dedication, his creativity was acknowledged at the national level.
This success gave him the confidence to start training others. For over 17 years now, he has empowered both tribal and non-tribal artisans, fostering economic growth in 25 villages. He began by training housewives, and today, the Kondh, the Dongria, and a few other tribes have wholeheartedly embraced the craft. They meticulously carve, chisel, polish, and paint the dried gourds into stunning, functional pieces. His approach is unique: he and his team design each piece based on the gourd's natural shape and size, treating it as God’s creation. This ensures every item is distinct. The craft has now expanded to include flower pots, fruit baskets, musical instruments, jewelry, and idols.
The allure of gourd art lies in its sustainability. Gourds are 100% biodegradable and locally abundant, so transforming them into art reduces waste and plastic use. As an eco-friendly and biodegradable art form, its popularity is soaring globally, with pieces reaching markets from India to Brazil and the United States. This growth, fueled by crucial government support in training and market access, ensures the craft and its artisans not only survive but thrive.Recently, Himanshu’s lifelong dedication was honored with the prestigious Hasta Kala Upadhi award under the Guru Shishya Parampara Anusthan. Through his vision, Himanshu Shekhar Pandia has done more than create art. He has preserved a rich cultural heritage, empowered marginalized communities, and built a legacy of sustainable development that continues to flourish.
Artist name: Himanshu Shekhar Pandia
Phone no : +91 94377 47423
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