By Sarat Paikray
Actress Madhuri Dixit: On the occasion of National Handloom Day, Odisha Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the state-level handloom fair ‘Ekta’ at Janata Maidan in Bhubaneswar. In his address, the Chief Minister described Odisha’s handloom heritage as a vital pillar of Odia identity, emphasizing that the handloom sector is not only an economic asset but also a symbol of national pride and cultural legacy.
He highlighted how Odisha’s weaving tradition—from ancient maritime trade routes to the modern global fashion stage—has consistently reflected excellence, spirituality, and cultural richness.
On this occasion, the Chief Minister announced that Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit has been appointed as the Brand Ambassador for Odisha Handloom for one year. He expressed confidence that with her active involvement, garments made by Odia weavers will gain national and international recognition in the fashion world.
The Chief Minister further shared that over 1.3 lakh weavers and allied workers are directly engaged in the handloom sector across the 30 districts of Odisha. Through primary weavers’ cooperative societies, self-help groups, and producer groups, these artisans are working collectively to preserve and promote Odisha’s weaving heritage.
He also mentioned that during the Odisha Textile Conclave, the state signed 33 MoUs with a cumulative investment of ₹7,808 crore, aimed at boosting the textile industry and creating 53,300 employment opportunities.
The CM reiterated his government’s commitment to strengthening the handloom sector by developing handloom parks equipped with dye houses, warehouses, design studios, and quality testing labs in places like Bargarh and Cuttack. More than 40 master weavers from the state have received national awards for excellence and innovation.
Recalling the role of handloom in India’s Swadeshi Movement over 120 years ago, CM Majhi urged citizens to honor weavers by wearing handloom garments and embracing indigenous products.
During the event, the Chief Minister also launched the National Handloom Day mascot ‘Resha’ and unveiled a short film showcasing the heritage and significance of the handloom industry. He also felicitated several handloom weavers for their contributions.
The week-long handloom fair at Janata Maidan, Bhubaneswar will continue till August 13.
Bollywood icon and newly-appointed Brand Ambassador Madhuri Dixit, speaking at the event, said she deeply resonates with the emotions of the weaver community. “Handloom is not just fabric; it’s the identity of every Odia. It is not just a livelihood but an inseparable part of our culture and lifestyle,” she said.
State Handlooms, Textiles & Handicrafts Minister Pradeep Bal Samant stated that under the leadership of CM Majhi, several transformative initiatives have been undertaken to modernize the weaving industry. These include the Mukhyamantri Hastatanta Shramik Samman Yojana, the Hastatanta Shilpi Samprasaran Niti, as well as various fairs and subsidy schemes aimed at the welfare of artisans.
He called on the younger generation to proudly wear Odisha’s handloom products and support local artisans.
Also present at the event were Development Commissioner and Additional Chief Secretary Anu Garg, Departmental Commissioner and Principal Secretary Guhā Punam Tapas Kumar, who delivered the welcome address, and Director of Textiles Prem Chand Chaudhary, who offered the vote of thanks.
