Nestled in the heart of Bargarh, the village of Bijepur carries forward an age-old craft that has given rhythm to Odisha’s cultural and spiritual life. Here, the art of bell metal shaping takes a musical form in Gini, also known as Manjira—small yet powerful cymbals that hold deep significance in folk traditions and religious rituals. For generations, skilled artisans have meticulously forged these instruments, using techniques that have been passed down through the ages. Each piece, shaped with precision and care, is more than just a musical tool; it is a link between past and present, a medium through which traditions find expression.

Inside the shalas, or workshops, of Bijepur, artisans sit amidst stacks of raw metal, their hands moving in perfect sync with the steady rhythm of hammers against glowing sheets of bell metal. With each strike, they mold the material into symmetrical, polished cymbals that will later produce the crisp, resonant chimes essential to Odisha’s devotional music. These cymbals accompany folk singers, temple rituals, and community celebrations, adding a distinct metallic resonance to performances that have remained unchanged for centuries. The creation process itself is an intricate dance of fire, metal, and craftsmanship—one that demands skill, patience, and an intimate understanding of sound.

As the OCO Fellows walked through the village, they witnessed not just a craft, but a living tradition. The air was filled with the clear, ringing notes of freshly shaped Gini, each chime a testament to the artisans’ dedication.

The workshop floors bore the marks of time—scratches and indentations from years of metalworking—reminders of the many hands that have kept this art alive. The Fellows observed the artisans working with quiet focus, their weathered hands expertly maneuvering the metal, ensuring that each cymbal met the precise tonal quality needed for its purpose. The very atmosphere of the village seemed to hum with the legacy of this enduring craft.

Yet, like many traditional arts, the future of Bijepur’s bell metal craft hangs in the balance. The rise of industrial production, changing market demands, and the lure of more lucrative professions have led to a decline in the number of artisans taking up the trade. Despite these challenges, the spirit of resilience remains strong. The continued recognition of this art, along with initiatives that connect artisans to wider markets and younger generations, can help sustain and revitalize the craft.

With dedicated support, the legacy of Bijepur’s bell metal artisans will not fade into history. Instead, their work will continue to echo—each chime of the Gini carrying forward the voices of the past, resonating into the future.