Taking what many would discard as junk, a woman from Odisha has transformed it into art. With brushes, stones, and colours, Tapaswini Senapati, a homemaker from Gop in Kendrapada district, is giving waste bottles a second life, turning them into eye-catching home decor pieces.
Tapaswini, originally from Gop, moved to Jagatsinghpur after marriage. An MBA by qualification, she once worked at a private bank.
After the birth of her son and daughter, she left her job to focus on her family. Like many homemakers, she wondered how best to use her free time. Inspiration struck when a friend introduced her to the idea of bottle craft.
“I started by watching YouTube videos and experimenting on my own. At first, I used basic colours and adhesive powders to paint gods and goddesses on bottles. Slowly, I tried flower vases, birds, and lipan art,” said Tapaswini.
Crafting Beauty From Waste
Armed with acrylic paints, stones, and creative imagination, Tapaswini now designs a wide range of home decor items, including painted bottles, vases, wall hangings, and more. Each piece carries intricate detailing and a unique touch. Her creations have gained popularity, and she often receives orders from the local market.
“I use discarded bottles like water bottles and craft home decor items out of them. Such artistic bottles are in high demand in the market. I have sold many such pieces and get frequent requests from friends and contacts to continue making and selling such art,” she explained.
Family Support Behind the Craft
Tapaswini’s journey has been made easier with support from her family. Her mother, Ranjita Senapati, proudly said, “My daughter has always been creative. After leaving her job, she wanted to do something meaningful. Bottle craft gave her that chance.”
Her sister-in-law, Kalyani Senapati, also lends a hand whenever she finds time. “Whenever she gets free time, we sit together and help her with painting and decorating. This art can help many women become self-reliant,” she said.
Growing Demand, Bigger Possibilities
The popularity of handmade crafts is rising steadily in Odisha. Experts believe that with proper government support, training, and access to bigger markets, such art could provide livelihood opportunities to many women across the state.
Tapaswini’s colourful creations have already started inspiring others in her locality. Her family believes that her initiative will encourage more women to turn waste into wealth.
