The cultural melting pot: Koraput weekly haat
Koraput weekly haats (locally referred to as 'haats') are vibrant cultural hubs. Held every Friday and Saturday across various locations within Koraput District, these markets attract people of various ethnic groups such as Desia Kondh, Bonda and Gadaba tribes - creating an eclectic atmosphere and providing visitors with an opportunity to experience and purchase unique tribal handicrafts.
Paraja painting: A slice of tribal life
Koraput's art scene boasts the vibrant and colourful Paraja paintings produced by its indigenous community. These vibrant paintings serve as visual documentations of their culture, beliefs and lifestyle - produced with organic dyes made from leaves, flowers and other eco-friendly materials sourced locally - embellishing fabric walls or fabric to bring some traditional charm into any space they inhabit.
Dhokra metal craft: The ancient wax technique
Koraput's Dhokra metal craft, an integral component of its artisanal heritage, involves an ancient wax technique known as 'lost wax casting. This fascinating method results in stunning metal masterpieces that showcase both artistic tradition and technical precision.
Horn work: Artistry in animal horns
Koraput's art of horn work is an intriguing display of utilising animal horns to craft intricate decorative items. Craftsmen with generations of experience use buffalo and ox horns to sculpt everything from jewellery, hair accessories, ornamental vessels, as well as ornaments from scratch using knives or saws - an impressive display that showcases both dexterity and regional aesthetic tradition in Koraput.