Veteran dye artist Kunja Meher passes away

Sambalpur, Jun 30 (UNI) Veteran artist in the field of tie and dye and popularly known as 'Bandhasilpi', for innovating new patterns in ''Sambalpuri Sarees'' Kunja Behari Meher died today at Barapali,about 80 kms from here, following prolonged illness.

Mr Meher, a recipient of Padmashree for his contribution in the field of art, has brought magical changes in pattern and design of Sambalpuri saree.

He was also instrumental in popularising the Sambalpuri saree by organising several demonstrations and exhibitions both inside and outside the country.

For his contribution for the development of Sambalpuri sarees and tie and dye art, Mr Meher also received Silpa Guru award from Government of India in 2004. He wrote as many as three books including his autobiography.

Family sources said the mortal remains of the veteran artist was consigned to flames at his birth place at Barapali in presence of hundreds of people from Bargarh district.

Orissa Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Biju Janata Dal(BJD) Parliament member from Sambalpur Prasanna Acharya have expressed deep condolences saying that with Meher's death the state has lost an eminent dye artist.

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