An excellent collection of artwork in Sudarshan Crafts Museum

Located on Puri’s station road, the Sudarshan Crafts Museum is two km away from Puri Junction. For those who appreciate art, it is among the top attractions in Puri. In 1977, Shri Sudarsan Sahoo founded the Sudarshan Crafts Museum. The museum features an excellent collection of artwork created by Sudarshan Sahoo, including paintings, handicrafts, and carvings made of wood, stone, and fiberglass. A library, a workshop, and a Buddhist temple constructed in the Japanese style are all located on the museum’s grounds. For those who enjoy art, this museum is a must-see because it offers tourists an enlightening and educational experience. The unique artwork and priceless pieces of national tradition and culture are on show. Stone carvings and metal sculptures are also for sale in the museum. The museum gives aspiring artists a stage on which to present their work to a global audience.

Attraction

The sculptures in the museum’s vast collection, which are painstakingly made of fiberglass, stone, and wood, are its main draw. The diverse subjects portrayed in these works, which vary from mythical characters and holy deities to modern issues, highlight India’s rich cultural legacy and artistic diversity. The museum is a living place where guests may watch artists at work in the on-site workshop rather than merely a static exhibition of artwork. Visitors can better understand the complex procedures and expertise required in traditional sculpture-making in this dynamic setting. The fact that these artisans are in the process of making new pieces gives the museum visit a special and instructive element.

The museum is surrounded by a gorgeously kept garden with more sculptures, which adds to the peaceful and attractive atmosphere. The garden offers a serene environment where guests can ponder the artworks and take in the space’s natural beauty. A range of paintings and other artworks are on display in an art gallery within the museum, expanding the exhibition’s breadth and showcasing the versatility of Indian painters. The tourist experience is further enhanced by the frequent special exhibitions and cultural events held at this gallery.

History

Since its founding in 1977, the Sudarshan Crafts Museum has drawn the attention of tourists, art enthusiasts, and historians alike. The goal of Shri Sudarshan Sahoo’s vision was to provide a venue that would train upcoming artists in addition to showcasing the extraordinary skill of regional craftspeople. The museum opened with modest exhibits comprising a few sculptures and handicrafts. It has grown over time to encompass a range of exhibitions offering a profound understanding of Odishan culture.

Inside/Outside Views

Inside: The precise craftsmanship and traditional Indian art are highlighted by the large collection of stone, wood, and fiberglass sculptures displayed inside the Sudarshan Crafts Museum. In the on-site workshop, guests may watch craftspeople in action and gain insight into the sculpting process. To enhance the cultural experience, the museum also has an art gallery with a variety of paintings and temporary exhibitions.
Outside: The museum’s outside features a tastefully designed garden with outdoor sculptures that create a calm and peaceful atmosphere. The building’s historic architectural style blends nicely with the artistic concept, and the garden provides a tranquil area for strolling and relaxing where nature and art coexist.

Opening Hours

Monday 7 AM–12 PM
2–5 PM
6–8 PM
Tuesday 7 AM–12 PM
2–5 PM
6–8 PM
Wednesday 7 AM–12 PM
2–5 PM
6–8 PM
Thursday 7 AM–12 PM
2–5 PM
6–8 PM
Friday 7 AM–12 PM
2–5 PM
6–8 PM
Saturday 7 AM–12 PM
2–5 PM
6–8 PM
Sunday
(Ratha Yatra)
7 AM–12 PM
2–5 PM
6–8 PM

How to Reach

By Air: Land at Bhubaneswar’s Biju Patnaik International Airport, which is roughly 60 kilometers from Puri. To get to Puri, take a bus or cab from the airport.

By Road: Take the NH316 from Bhubaneswar to Puri by car or taxi; the trip takes one to two hours. Additionally, buses from Bhubaneswar and other locations are accessible.

By Rail: Get to the Puri Railway Station, which has good access to other big cities. The museum is situated on Station Road, close to Gundicha Temple, and is accessible by cab, autorickshaw, or cycle rickshaw from the station. It is roughly 2.5 kilometers away. It takes about 30 minutes to get to the museum on foot.

Tips for Travellers

To avoid crowds and to explore the museum at leisure, consider visiting early in the day.
Check For Workshops.
Enquire about any ongoing workshops or demonstrations to witness the creation of art firsthand.
Respect The Art.
Photography may be restricted in certain areas, so be sure to follow museum guidelines.

FAQ

Que-01: Is this place safe to visit?

Ans: Yes, this place is safe.

Que-02: Is photography allowed inside?

Ans: Photography is not allowed inside.

Que-03: What can visitors expect to see at the museum?

Ans: Visitors to the Sudarshan Crafts Museum can expect to see a diverse collection of handicrafts including stone sculptures, wood carvings, and traditional paintings. Additionally, there is a section dedicated to Buddhist art and an exhibition of the personal collection of Mr. Sahoo.

Que-04: Are there any hands-on activities or workshops available at the Sudarshan Craft Museum?

Ans: Yes, the museum often conducts workshops and courses on various forms of art and craft where visitors can learn directly from skilled artisans. It is a place that encourages experiential learning and interaction with the artisans.

Que-05: When was the Sudarshan Craft Museum established?

Ans: The Sudarshan Crafts Museum was established in the year 1977 by the master sculptor Sudarshan Sahoo with the aim of preserving and promoting Indian arts and crafts.