Pipili Appliqué: Odisha's Colourful Patchwork Craft

Along with its famous handlooms, Odisha is home to many beautiful crafts. One of the most colourful is Pipili appliqué work.

What Is Appliqué?

Appliqué is a technique in which pieces of coloured fabric are cut into shapes and stitched onto a base cloth to create designs. Pipili artisans add embroidery and sometimes small mirrors for extra sparkle.

Where It Comes From

The craft takes its name from Pipili, a town in Puri district on the route between Bhubaneswar and Puri. The village's main street is lined with shops displaying bright appliqué products.

Connection with Lord Jagannath

Appliqué has long been associated with the temple traditions of Puri. It is used in canopies, umbrellas (chhati) and decorative pieces during festivals, including the famous Rath Yatra.

Traditional Motifs

• Elephants, parrots, peacocks and ducks
• Flowers, creepers and trees
• The sun, the moon and Rahu
• Geometric borders

Colours

Traditional appliqué uses strong colours – red, yellow, black, green and white – arranged in striking contrasts.

Appliqué in Modern Homes

• Wall hangings and lampshades
• Cushion covers and bedspreads
• Garden umbrellas and festive canopies
• Bags, pouches and table runners

Why Support Crafts Like Pipili?

Buying handmade crafts sustains artisan families and keeps Odisha's living traditions alive – just like choosing handloom sarees.

Explore Odisha's heritage in our Other Collections and Odisha Sarees.

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