*Bhubaneswar, October 11, 2026:* The Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS) has showcased Odisha’s traditional handloom and handicraft products at Bhubaneswar Times Fashion Week 2026, where it is a Co-Powering Partner. The two-day event, held on October 10 and 11 at Mayfair Sanctuary, Bhubaneswar, provided a platform to promote the state’s indigenous crafts and connect rural producers with wider markets.
Forty models, including Ollywood actress Sangeeta Shibani, walked the ramp showcasing collections promoted by ORMAS. The presentation featured Sambalpuri silk sarees, Kataka Khandua silk sarees, Maniabandha sarees, Pattachitra silk sarees, GI-tagged Kotpad handloom products, traditional Dhalapathar weaving products, Dhokra craft and fabric jewellery, including products under the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative. Fourteen women weavers from Khordha and Kataka districts also walked the ramp in their own traditional handloom creations, sharing a platform with professional models and bringing the skills of Odisha’s rural artisans into the fashion spotlight. Their participation marked a meaningful step towards empowering local weavers by giving them visibility and recognition on a wider platform. The showcase received appreciation from the audience.
ORMAS also set up two kiosks at the venue to display and sell handloom and handicraft products made by the state’s weavers and artisans. Visitors explored the collections, purchased products and appreciated their designs and craftsmanship.
The showcased collections will also be available for purchase at Subarnashree, the ORMAS retail outlet, and Subhadra Shakti Bazar giving customers continued access to Odisha’s traditional handloom and handicraft products.
Highlighting the importance of such initiatives in promoting traditional crafts and creating livelihood opportunities for rural artisans, Shri Rabi Narayan Naik, Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water, said, “Opportunities like these connect our weavers and artisans with new markets and customers, while preserving Odisha’s rich craft heritage and strengthening rural livelihoods.”
