Age has not withered the beauty and dynamic diversity of Orissa's traditional arts and crafts Stemming from centuries of exquisite craftsmanship, they are a colourful testimony to the nterred life force amongst an ancient people.

Cross-cultural influences in religion and tilitarian trades have produced a range of gorgeous crafts that add colour and creativity to their lives.

Orissa's religious heritage has played one of the most dynamic roles in fashioning the infinite variety of crafts available in the numerous stores lining the city streets and the artists' villages.

Buddhism, Jainism, Shaivism and Vaishnavism movements have left their imprints on Orissa's ancient arts and crafts, as have its strong tribal traditions. Its sea-faring history has brought in influences from Indonesia and China.