National Handloom Day / Odisha Governor Appeals for Weekly Use of Handloom Products to Support Weavers

Bhubaneswar, Aug 7: Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati has urged the people of Odisha to make handloom a part of their lifestyle by wearing handloom products at least once a week. Speaking at the 12th State-Level National Handloom Day celebration at IDCO Exhibition Ground, he said such a simple commitment could become a powerful movement to support thousands of weaving families across the state.

Call for Collective Action
The Governor appealed to government officials, public representatives, teachers, professionals and youth to lead by example in adopting Odisha’s handloom heritage. “Every handwoven fabric carries a story of skill, perseverance, family tradition and human creativity,” he said, adding that buying handloom sustains rural employment, empowers women, and strengthens the local economy.

Cultural Significance
National Handloom Day, observed annually on August 7, commemorates the Swadeshi Movement of 1905 when handwoven textiles became symbols of self-reliance and national pride. Kambhampati described the day as a tribute to India’s civilisation, culture and skilled artisans who have preserved weaving traditions for centuries.

Odisha’s Rich Heritage
Highlighting Odisha’s weaving legacy, the Governor noted that Sambalpuri Bandha, Odisha Ikat, Bomkai, Khandua, Kotpad, Habaspuri, Berhampur Patta and Gopalpur Tussar have earned global recognition for their distinctive designs. He stressed that handloom should not be confined to special occasions but integrated into everyday life through clothing, furnishings and accessories.
Also Read: Odisha Attracts Rs43,437 Cr Food Processing Investment Proposals at Delhi Roadshow

Strengthening the Sector
The Governor appreciated initiatives in design innovation, digital marketing, tourism linkages and technology-based product traceability. He congratulated State Handloom Award recipients, calling weavers custodians of invaluable cultural heritage. Foundation stones were laid for Kastaa Handloom Bhavan in Jagatsinghpur, Tasar Silk Park Phase-I and Tasar Facility Centre in Jajpur, while a Fabric Calendaring Unit in Khordha was inaugurated virtually.