The 20th Grand Toshali Swadeshi Mela officially began today at Janata Maidan in Bhubaneswar, celebrating the rich legacy of Odisha’s handloom and handicraft sectors.
Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo inaugurated the fair and emphasized that Odisha’s handloom and handicraft products have a unique appeal, reflecting the state’s glorious heritage and cultural identity. He stated that the primary objective of the fair is to enhance the economic prosperity of weavers and artisans.
The Minister for Handlooms, Textiles, and Handicrafts expressed pride in Odisha’s weavers and artisans, noting that while they have become torchbearers of the state’s weaving legacy, handicraft artisans have emerged as ambassadors of excellence in art. He highlighted the government’s commitment to strengthening their livelihoods.
During the event, 12 artisans were recognised for their significant contributions. Two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed between the Directorate of Handicrafts and the CSIR-IMMT, Bhubaneswar, and the Indian Institute of Packaging, Mumbai. Additionally, two MoUs were signed between the Directorate of Handlooms and Textiles and the ICAR-National Institute of Natural Fibre Engineering and Technology, along with Odisha University of Technology and Research, Bhubaneswar.
Guha Poonam Tapas Kumar, the Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Handlooms, Textiles, and Handicrafts Department, delivered the welcome address. Dr. Nibedita Prusti, the Director of Handicrafts, proposed the vote of thanks.
Notable attendees included Ekamra MLA Babu Singh, regional coordinator of Swabalambi Abhiyan Sarada Satpathy, renowned Bandha artist and Padma Shri awardee Sharat Kumar Patra, Additional Secretary Pratap Chandra Hota, and Director of Handlooms and Textiles Surya Narayan Pattanayak.
The fair will continue until February 26. This year, there are a total of 905 stalls set up, showcasing weavers and artisans from 20 states participating in the event.
