As the OCO Fellows stepped into Bhubana, Dhenkanal, the largest village in South Asia, they were greeted by a landscape steeped in history. Narrow, dusty lanes wound their way past houses with weathered walls. The air carried the soft clang of distant hammers. This was once a thriving hub of bell metal craftsmanship. A tradition passed down through generations — but now, its echoes are fading.
Bhubana’s bell metal craft has long been a symbol of Odisha’s rich cultural heritage. Known for its strength and beauty, bell metal was used to create everything from everyday utensils to intricate ceremonial objects. The pieces were more than just functional. They were works of art, shaped with care and infused with stories. But today, this tradition stands on the brink of extinction.

As the fellows began their research, they visited the few remaining workplaces scattered across the village. The sight was sobering. Many of these spaces, once bustling with activity, now stood silent. The few artisans still practicing their craft worked with quiet determination. Their hands moved with practiced precision over glowing metal. Lines of focus and weariness marked their faces. They reflected years spent fighting to keep their legacy alive.

Speaking with the artisans wasn’t easy. Many had moved away from the craft, driven by economic hardship and the lack of resources. Those who remained spoke of their struggles. Rising material costs, dwindling demand, and the absence of younger generations willing to learn the skill threatened their survival. In many homes, the fellows found old bell metal objects tucked away like relics. Gleaming bowls, sturdy plates, and ornate lamps stood as reminders of a time when this art flourished.The deeper the fellows delved, the more they uncovered a painful reality. Much of the traditional knowledge of bell metal craft has already been lost. Master artisans, the keepers of intricate techniques, have passed away without passing on their wisdom. As a result, entire styles and methods of production have vanished. They slipped away like whispers on the wind.

On their final day, the fellows had the rare privilege of examining historical bell metal pieces. These objects stood as silent witnesses to a once-vibrant tradition. Each curve and detail spoke of a mastery now scarce. In conversations with the artisans, one truth became clear. The scarcity of coal has been a major factor in the craft’s decline. With coal supplies dwindling and costs rising, production has slowed to a crawl. Many artisans have been forced to abandon their work.The journey to Bhubana was not just an exploration of craft. It was a journey into the heart of a community struggling to preserve its identity. The OCO Fellows returned with more than just research. They carried stories of resilience and loss.