Cuttack is popular for its silver filigree, locally known as Tarakasi. This form of craftwork uses fine silver wires to create jewellery, decorative pieces and religious designs. It is one of the strongest craft identities of the city and the prime reason why Cuttack is often called the Silver City. Tarakashi craft is known for using high-quality silver wires. Some of the renowned shopping hubs in Cuttack include Dolomundai Sahi, Nayasarak and Choudhury Bazaar.
As you plan a craft-focused trip, choose hotels in Cuttack near the central market side or main transport routes for the ease of commutation. This makes it easier to visit multiple shops without rushing, as you can minimise travel time and hassle.
What makes the Tarakashi filigree special?
Silver filigree is delicate work as artisans use thin silver wires to make patterns that look light but intricate. The designs often feature flowers, leaves, temple shapes, Konark Wheel replicas, Lord Jagannath designs, jewellery pieces and home décor items.
Tarakashi is not a craft to buy in a hurry, but it needs minute observation and study before selecting a piece.
While shopping in Cuttack, do not pick Tarakashi simply by its shine in the market. Scrutinise the silver wires and pattern carefully to determine its finesse. It is the tiny detailing where the real beauty of filigree is identified.
Best markets for filigree shopping
Cuttack has multiple markets where travellers can look for silver filigree items.
Some of the popular shopping destinations for filigree include:
- Nayasarak
- Choudhury Bazaar
- Dolomundai Sahi
- Balu Bazaar
- Local jewellery lanes
Browse through several markets to compare designs and prices. While some stores will focus more on jewellery, others may keep decorative pieces and religious items at different price ranges.
What kind of filigree to buy?
Travellers purchase both small and easy-to-carry items and decorative pieces.
Some of the must-have filigree items include:
- Earrings
- Pendants
- Bangles
- Brooches
- Sindoor boxes
- Small idols
- Konark Wheel replicas
- Lord Jagannath designs
- Decorative showpieces
- Gift items
For first-time buyers, you may purchase earrings or small pendants to understand what filigree art is all about. They are easier to carry, affordable and convenient as compared to larger decorative pieces.
How to check the quality of Tarakashi filigree silver?
Silver filigree should be checked carefully before buying for authenticity and the best deals. Travellers should not buy a silver piece just because it is elegant, but also focus on quality and durability.
Here are important checkpoints to see before buying Tarakashi:
- Silver purity mark
- Finishing quality
- Wire detailing
- Joint strength
- Weight
- Smooth edges
- Bill or receipt
- Return or exchange rules
While browsing through the stores, ask the shopkeepers whether the item is handmade or machine-finished. Handmade pieces may have slight variations and imperfections, but the detailing often feels more personalised.
Buying tips for travellers
Browsing through Cuttack for filigree silver, you need to keep the following tips in mind:
- Visit more than one shop to compare the rates.
- Ask for the purity of silver to make sure you purchase the best quality.
- Request a proper bill for the product in case of exchange or return later.
- Compare similar designs to understand detailing and finesse.
- Check if the piece bends too easily for durability.
- Avoid very rough edges, as they may not be the perfect filigree work.
- Keep delicate filigree items separately to avoid breakage or damage.
- Do not keep filigree loose in luggage, as it might break.
Combine handicraft shopping with sightseeing tours
A silver filigree shopping trip can be combined with local sightseeing for a holistic experience. You can visit Barabati Fort, Cuttack Chandi Temple or Netaji Birthplace Museum before moving to the market areas in the evening.
Best time to shop:
- Morning or late afternoon is the best time for market visits when the tourist rush is sparse.
- Midday can feel crowded and tiring due to the heat.
- Festive seasons may offer more variety, but shops can also be busier, and hence you should avoid weekends.