Odisha’s rich handloom and handicraft traditions took centre stage in a dazzling display of cultural pride and modern design at the “Swa-Tanta” fashion show, held on Friday evening at the exhibition ground as part of Sisir Saras-2026.
Organised by ORMAS (Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society) in collaboration with Subhadra Shakti Paksha, the event successfully bridged the gap between age-old craftsmanship and contemporary fashion, captivating hundreds of attendees.
“Swa-Tanta” — a thoughtful fusion of “Swa” (our) and “Tanta” (handloom) — celebrated Odisha’s cultural identity by transforming traditional textiles and crafts into wearable modern statements. Highlights included Sonepuri ikat, Kotpad natural-dyed fabrics, Dhokra metal craft elements, and Dongria Kondh embroidery, all reinterpreted with fresh silhouettes, cuts, and styling. The core message was clear: preserve heritage while making it relevant to today’s lifestyle and market.
Popular Ollywood actresses Prakruti Mishra, Swapna Priyadarshini, BM Baishali, and Suryamayee Mohapatra turned showstoppers, walking the ramp in stunning handwoven ensembles that drew thunderous applause. They were joined by nearly 30 professional models who brought energy and grace to the presentation, showcasing how Odisha’s textiles can seamlessly fit into modern wardrobes.
The collections were specially curated and designed under the ORMAS banner, featuring natural dyes, intricate traditional motifs, and masterful local weaving techniques. The result was a beautiful harmony of authenticity and innovation.
Through “Swa-Tanta”, organisers emphasised that handlooms are not just relics of the past but vibrant, market-ready designs for the future. Bearing the tagline “Inherited from the Past, Designed for the Future,” the show earned widespread praise for giving artisans and designers a prominent platform and reinforcing pride in Odisha’s textile heritage.
