Papier Mache of Odisha

Odisha is widely known for its masks and figurines made from papier mache. These are inspired from the traditional patachitra painting. It’s literal meaning of the word is chewed paper or pulped paper. It is a unique craft which is made out of waste paper, textile waste and various natural fibers. They are soaked at first and later beaten and mixed with gum. Adding gum gives it strength and also protects it from termites.

Masks, also known as mukha, are made by mould of clay and newspapers. Paper and cloth rags are also added and applied in layers with locally available gum on the mould. At the end saw-dust is applied smoothly which is later dried and burnished with sandpaper. The colors are made as they are made for patachitra paintings,from sea shells and rocks. Outlines of the eyes are done in red and black following the patachitra style.

Masks of deities, demons and animals made from papier mache are used in local folk and classical dance performances. Apart from these masks, other articles such as dolls, pen stands and lampshades are also made from papier mache.

Korani/ spatula, tulli/brush, nadiasadhei/ paint container, pathrakadhi/tamarind seed grinder and rubna/stone grinder are used to make articles from papier mache.