International Craft Summit

January 24, 2023

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated the ‘International Craft Summit’ in Jajpur, Odisha. This summit serves as a significant cultural milestone, bringing together artisans, culture enthusiasts, and artists from across the globe.

The summit has attracted delegates from 15 different countries, fostering international collaboration between these participants and local artisans and stakeholders. This convergence highlights the global appeal of traditional craftsmanship and cultural exchange.
This unique event enjoys support from four United Nations (UN) agencies and five UNESCO Creative Cities, demonstrating its international recognition and significance. The partnership with these prestigious organizations underscores the importance of preserving and promoting traditional crafts and culture.

Chief Minister Patnaik, in his address, emphasized the historical importance of Jajpur in the context of Odisha. He underscored its potential to become a major tourist destination, thanks to its rich assets in religious tourism, urban tourism, and Buddhist tourism. This recognition of Jajpur’s historical significance adds a layer of cultural importance to the summit.

Patnaik celebrated Odisha’s diverse cultural heritage, visible in its temples, sculptures, hand-woven textiles, intricate paintings, and craftsmanship. He highlighted the artistic prowess of Odisha’s craftsmen, whose skills are prominently displayed in various aspects of the state’s cultural artifacts.
The state government is fully committed to the holistic development of tourism, handloom, and handicraft sectors. It has implemented various policies and initiatives to drive this development, including the establishment of art galleries, heritage walks, and other activities that promote tourism and culture.
Odisha aspires to become a global tourist hotspot, providing abundant livelihood opportunities, attracting investments, and celebrating its art, craft, music, and culture as its core identity.

UNESCO acknowledged and appreciated Odisha’s efforts to promote local art, artists, and artisans, further validating the state’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. The presence of Bollywood actor Dia Mirza at the summit added a touch of celebrity glamour to this culturally significant event.

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