By Our Correspondent
JAJPUR/BHUBANESWAR: The 2-days long first-of-its-kind ‘International Craft Summit’ has begun at Jajpur in Odisha with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik gracing the occasion virtually.
Among others, Science and Technology Minister Ashok Panda, Rural Development Minister Priti Ranjan Ghadai, Handloom, Textile and Handicrafts Minister Rita Sahu, renowned Bolywood actor Dia Mirza were also present.
Delegates from 15 Countries have joined the event. Four UN agencies and five UNESCO Creative Cities have partnered with the District to realize this ambitious and forward-looking event on behalf of the State Government.
The Chief Minister said it is a historic occasion for Odisha. He said, “Jajpur was the Ancient Capital of Odisha. With its existing assets of religious tourism, urban tourism and Buddhist tourism, it has the potential to be a major tourist hub The cultural heritage of Jajpur is reflected in its vibrant art forms.”
“Odisha is an illustrious land of immaculate art and crafts. Our civilizational journey is a journey of our artistic culture. The artistic skills of our craftsmen are reflected in numerous ways. You can find it in our temples, our sculptures, Buddhist shrines, hand-woven clothes, patta paintings, wood works, metal works…… everywhere. Every village, every lane of Odisha exhibits some form of art or craft. The soul of Odisha lives in our art, craft, music and culture,’ CM Patnaik said.
He said that the Government of Odisha is making concerted efforts to develop Odisha as a global hotspot of tourists, provide livelihoods and employment opportunities, and make the State attractive for investors.
