H@R 40/365 Vernacular houses of traditional weavers Bargarh district, Odisha

H@R 40/365

Vernacular houses of traditional weavers Bargarh district, Odisha

The traditional homes optimally utilise the locally available materials to suit the climatic conditions. The roof details illustrate the fine construction techniques. Some houses have the upper floor built of lesser height, generally to accommodate functions such as kitchen. These homes are origins of some of the most exquisite Ikat sarees, famous from the region. The dual-purpose vernacular architecture, located in traditional community clusters, is an extremely critical aspect of keeping alive the ancient craft of handloom weaving. But these are at risk of disappearance due to pressures of urbanisation. Schemes such as Awas Yojana that promote new construction materials, only add to the challenges.