Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s traditional handloom and handicraft heritage took centre stage at Bhubaneswar Times Fashion Week 2026, as the Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS) showcased the state’s indigenous products to a wider audience, connecting rural artisans with new market opportunities.
ORMAS participated as a Co-Powering Partner at the two-day fashion event held on October 10 and 11 at Mayfair Sanctuary in Bhubaneswar. The showcase brought Odisha’s traditional weaving techniques and handicrafts to the fashion runway, highlighting the craftsmanship of rural producers.
A total of 40 models, including Ollywood actress Sangeeta Shibani, walked the ramp wearing collections promoted by ORMAS. The showcase 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. Products promoted under the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative were also part of the presentation.
A key highlight of the event was the participation of 14 women weavers from Khordha and Kataka districts, who walked the ramp wearing their own traditional handloom creations. Sharing the platform with professional models, the women brought their weaving skills and craftsmanship into the fashion spotlight. Their participation received appreciation from the audience and provided them with an opportunity to gain wider recognition for their work.
Beyond the runway, ORMAS set up two kiosks at the venue to display and sell handloom and handicraft products made by Odisha’s weavers and artisans. Visitors explored the collections, purchased products and appreciated their designs and traditional craftsmanship.
To ensure continued access to the showcased collections, the products will also be available for purchase at Subarnashree, the ORMAS retail outlet, and Subhadra Shakti Bazar. The initiative is expected to help connect traditional producers with more customers beyond the fashion event.
Highlighting the importance of such platforms, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Minister Rabi Narayan Naik said opportunities like these connect weavers and artisans with new markets and customers while preserving Odisha’s rich craft heritage and strengthening rural livelihoods.
The ORMAS initiative reflects efforts to promote indigenous products through contemporary platforms, expand market access for rural producers and create greater livelihood opportunities for weavers and artisans across the state.
