In a vibrant display of cultural pride, residents of Odisha donned traditional handloom attire to observe the ‘Ama Poshak Ama Parichaya’ (Our Dress Our Identity) Day on the second day of Odia Paksha celebrations.
The Department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture is organising Odia Paksha from April 1 to 14. On April 2, people across the state, from rural areas to the state capital Bhubaneswar, enthusiastically participated in the campaign by wearing traditional Odia clothing, symbolising the rich cultural heritage and diversity of the state.
Handloom (Hastatanta) is being celebrated as an emblem of Odia identity and legacy. Government officials and employees at Lok Seva Bhawan and various departmental headquarters showcased their cultural pride by wearing handloom and traditional outfits.
In different districts, discussion sessions on ‘Odisha’s Handloom and Weaving Crafts’ were organised. Handicraft exhibitions featuring Pattachitra paintings and other traditional arts were held to educate the younger generation about Odisha’s rich handloom, weaving, and handicraft traditions. Traditional motifs like Jhoti, Chita, and Muruja were prominently displayed.
Weavers and members of the weavers’ cooperative societies were honoured for their contributions.
Youth, students, and volunteers from various organisations actively participated by wearing traditional attire, taking selfies, uploading them to the official Odia Paksha website (odiapakhya.com), and downloading their digital participation certificates.
The enthusiasm for embracing and promoting traditional dress as a marker of identity was clearly visible among all sections of society.
Notably, April 3 will also be observed as ‘Our Dress Our Identity’ Day. On April 4, the School and Mass Education Department will organise ‘Khadichua and Pravesh Utsav’, while the Labour and Employees’ State Insurance Department will launch the ‘Odia Nameplate Writing Campaign’.
This initiative aims to strengthen Odia cultural identity and promote local handloom industries.
