Puri, Mar 14: Keeping tradition alive, two brothers, Karunakar and Ratnakar Maharana, who hail from Khandayat Patna village near Balanga Bazaar here, spend countless hours crafting ‘vimanas’ to carry Lord Krishna on the eve of Dola Purnima.
Temples use these intricately crafted carriers to carry Lord Krishna as he steps out once a year during Dola celebrations. The Lord visits devotees’ homes, receiving prasad and playing Holi, accompanied by devotional songs and the rhythmic beats of ‘ghantas’ and ‘mridangas’. The ‘vimanas’ vary in appearance, with some in faded wood hues, while others feature dark tints, depending on the specific orders from temples or individuals.
The Maharana brothers have inherited the craft, which has been passed down through generations. “We’ve learned this art under the guidance of our father and grandfather,” says Karunakar. “Every tiny detail matters. A simple mistake can lead to criticism, so we continue to uphold this tradition with utmost care.”
The Maharana family does not see their craftsmanship as a business but as a duty to serve Lord Krishna.
Crafting each vimana takes months, but the brothers manage to complete most of the work ahead of schedule, working alongside 8-10 other artisans. Despite the time-consuming nature of the process, the duo maintains an unwavering commitment to quality.
Traditionally, these carriers are made from teak or Sal wood, known for their durability, but due to rising costs, the brothers now also use Neem and Gambhari wood, which are equally strong and more affordable. Each vimana costs between Rs 25,000 and Rs 3 lakh, and the brothers produce at least 50 carriers annually, which are distributed to temples, homes, and fairs across Odisha.
Beyond preserving the tradition, the Maharana brothers also provide employment to artisans from five families in their village.
Despite their success, the brothers face challenges such as rising material costs, a lack of financial support, and a dwindling interest in the craft among younger generations. “If there were more government support, we could pass this tradition on to our children,” says Ratnakar, whose son Judhishthira now helps with the work.
For Karunakar and Ratnakar, the Dola Parba celebrations are more than just a business opportunity. Through their dedication, they keep the rich tradition of ‘vimana’ crafting alive, ensuring that it will continue to serve Lord Krishna for generations to come.
