Dokra Art
Ancient Metal Craft with Tribal Soul
About the Craft:
Dokra is a traditional metal casting craft practiced by tribal communities, known for its rustic charm and intricate handmade designs.
Where It Comes From:
Prominently practiced in Dhenkanal, Sundargarh, Mayurbhanj, and Keonjhar districts of Odisha.
How It Is Made:
A clay core is
shaped as the base
Covered with beeswax
to create design
Layered again with
clay mold
Heated to melt wax
(lost-wax process)
Molten metal poured
into the mold
Finished and
polished by hand
Why It Is Special:
- Handmade
- Eco-friendly
- Unique
Each Dokra piece is completely handmade and never identical, preserving a 4000-year-old technique still alive today.
Impact:
Supports tribal artisans and keeps indigenous knowledge and cultural storytelling alive through handcrafted metal art.
