Coconut Shell Carving of Odisha

Coconut shell, also known as Nadia, is economical to preserve in Odisha due to its easy availability on the coastline where coconut trees are grown in abundance. Decorative and utilitarian items such as candle stands, small containers and animal figurines are made out of coconut shells. Most of the items are sold at local or national emporia. The tools used are steel poker, hammer and chisel. The craft requires only a few raw materials and involves even less labor in comparison to betel nut carving.