Balasore, July 25 (UDN): In a quiet village of Odisha’s Balasore district, a 68-year-old artisan is breathing new life into a fading traditional craft. Bimala Rath, fondly known as ‘Shankha Mausi’, has earned recognition for creating handcrafted clay conches that remarkably resemble natural sea conches—not only in appearance but also in the sound they produce when blown.

A resident of Durga Devi village in Remuna block, Bimala has spent decades mastering the intricate art of moulding clay into musical conches, a craft rarely practised today. Her dedication has transformed what began as a childhood passion into a sustainable livelihood and an inspiring example of preserving Odisha’s rich artistic heritage.

Each clay conch is meticulously crafted by hand through a lengthy process. The clay is carefully prepared and seasoned before being shaped into the distinctive spiral form. Once naturally dried and hardened, the conch is refined with delicate detailing and vibrant finishing touches. The result is a handcrafted piece that closely mimics the look and resonant sound of a traditional sea conch.

Beyond clay conches, Bimala’s workshop produces a variety of handcrafted artefacts, including idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra, and sculptures depicting elephants, horses and other Hindu deities. Her creations are regularly showcased at local fairs, exhibitions and handicraft markets, where they have found appreciation among buyers and devotees alike.

Determined to ensure that the unique craft does not disappear, Bimala has also taken on the role of mentor. She is currently training eight to ten women from her village, equipping them with the skills needed to continue the tradition while creating new livelihood opportunities.

The women learning under her guidance say the initiative has enabled them to acquire a valuable traditional skill that can supplement their household income. For many, it is not just about earning a living but also about becoming custodians of an art form deeply rooted in Odisha’s cultural identity.

Through her unwavering commitment, ‘Shankha Mausi’ is doing more than crafting clay artefacts—she is preserving a rare legacy and passing it on to the next generation, ensuring that the sound of Odisha’s handcrafted clay conch continues to resonate for years to come.