Rangotsav-2026 Kicks Off in Bhubaneswar, Showcasing Herbal Colours and Rural Enterprise

Bhubaneswar: Ahead of Holi, the Odisha Rural Development & Marketing Society (ORMAS), under the Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Department, has rolled out ‘Rangotsav-2026’ at the State Institute for Rural Development & Panchayati Raj (SIRD & PR) campus in Bhubaneswar, creating a vibrant platform to promote chemical-free colours and strengthen market access for women Self Help Groups (SHGs).

The week-long fair features a rich display of herbal ‘abir’, traditional Odia food items, handicrafts, and handmade home décor products, all crafted by rural women entrepreneurs. By bringing producers and consumers together under one roof, the event aims to foster sustainable livelihoods and encourage responsible, eco-friendly festive practices.

Inaugurating the fair, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Minister Rabi Narayan Naik said the initiative reflects the State government’s commitment to women empowerment and environmental protection. He emphasised that the use of natural colours prepared by SHG women would help ensure safer Holi celebrations while boosting the rural economy. He called upon citizens to support local products and contribute to inclusive growth.

ORMAS Chief Executive Officer Dr Monica Priyadarshini said Rangotsav is a celebration of the skills, creativity, and entrepreneurship of rural women. She noted that ORMAS is working to connect SHG products with modern markets through quality enhancement, packaging, and branding, enabling them to gain recognition and competitive value in urban spaces.

A major attraction of the fair is the chemical-free herbal gulal prepared by SHGs with support from Rural Industrial Parks (RIPCs) in Ganjam district. Produced using natural ingredients such as turmeric, beetroot, and flowers, the colours are safe for both skin and the environment. The fair also showcases traditional delicacies, handicrafts, and handmade household items, providing rural women with direct access to urban consumers.

The event will continue till March 4, 2026, at the SIRD & PR campus in Unit-8, Bhubaneswar. ORMAS has appealed to the public to extend their support by purchasing eco-friendly Holi colours and rural products, thereby promoting sustainable development and strengthening grassroots livelihoods.