Brahmapur Treasures: From Silk Patta to Spicy Pickles and Street Bites

Brahmapur is a lively city in southern Odisha and is known for its rich culture and art. Among its many contributions, the famed Brahmapur Patta - also known as Brahmapuri Silk -  stands out as a symbol of timeless elegance and traditional craftsmanship. This exquisite handloom fabric, often referred to by its distinctive style name ‘Foda Kumbha’, is celebrated both nationally and internationally for its intricate weaves, rich texture, and unique Odissi design motifs. This unique weaving style, deeply rooted in the cultural ethos of Odisha, is believed to have originated over two centuries ago.

In Odisha’s religious sphere, devotees drape them on the deities Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra in the renowned Jagannath Temple of Puri, reflecting their sacred status. Each saree uniquely comes paired with a joda (a male garment), creating a coordinated set for both women and men.

The handloom sector in Odisha plays a crucial role in preserving the state’s cultural identity. With each thread, artisans of Brahmapur tell a story - of heritage, of skill, and of a community deeply connected to its roots. The Brahmapur Patta is not merely a textile; it is a living tradition, a piece of art that carries centuries of craftsmanship. The Government of India granted the Brahmapuri Patta saree a Geographical Indication (GI) tag (application no. 220), protecting its authenticity and preserving the cultural heritage linked to Brahmapur.

Besides its famous handloom work, Brahmapur is also known for its tasty food, especially pickles (achaar) and papad (pampad). These traditional foods are full of flavor and are usually made at home. The city’s pickles, made from a variety of ingredients like mango, lemon, garlic, and chili, are sun-dried and preserved using indigenous techniques, giving them a unique tang and long shelf life. Similarly, Brahmapur’s pampad - thin, crispy, and often spicy - are popular across Odisha and beyond, adding a crunchy delight to every meal.

Street Food and Snacks

• Puri Upma: Puri Upma delights breakfast lovers with a unique mix of crumbled puris, upma, sambar, ghughni, and coconut chutney. Vendors near the railway station serve it fresh and hot, making it a local favorite.
• Ghughni Chaat & Bara ‑ Ghuguni: Ghughni Chaat tempts the taste buds with dried yellow peas topped generously with chutneys and spices. In Bara-Ghuguni, cooks pair crispy lentil fritters (bara) with a flavorful yellow pea curry to create a hearty and satisfying dish.

• Macha Besara and Kankada Jhola (Crab Curry): Macha Besara and Kankada Jhola (Crab Curry) are popular seafood dishes, drawing rich flavor from Brahmapur’s coastal connection to the Bay of Bengal.
• Badi Chura: Locals make Badi Chura by crushing sun-dried lentil cakes and mixing them with mustard oil and onions, serving it as a typical and flavorful side dish.

Desserts and Refreshing Beverages

• Chhena Poda: Sweet makers craft Chhena Poda by baking caramelized cottage cheese to create a smoky, rich dessert that stands as an Odia classic.
• Chhena Gaja, Rasagola, Rasabali, Malpua: Sweet makers also prepare iconic sweets like Chhena Gaja, Rasagola, Rasabali, and Malpua. Rasabali stands out with its Geographical Indication (GI) tag, featuring soft chhena patties soaked in creamy rabri.

Brahmapur celebrates tradition in everyday life, weaving art into its culture. Artisans craft beautiful silk sarees, and locals prepare flavorful homemade pickles—each contributing to Odisha’s rich heritage. Known for its renowned handlooms and mouthwatering cuisine, Brahmapur continues to charm and captivate with its unique spirit.