Bhubaneswar: Odisha is gearing up for a grand celebration of National Handloom Day on August 7 in Bhubaneswar, Handlooms, Textiles and Handicrafts Minister Pradeep Bal Samanta said on Tuesday.
The event, to be inaugurated by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, is set to see Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit Nene gracing the occasion as a special guest.
A major highlight of the celebration will be a mega handloom and handicraft exhibition at Janata Maidan from August 7 to 13, showcasing the state’s rich weaving traditions and artisanal heritage.
More than 1,500 weavers from Odisha and artisans from more than eight states are expected to participate.
A special attraction will be the EKTA (Exhibition-cum-Knowledge Sharing for Textile Advantage) programme will be held on August 8 and 9, featuring seven knowledge-sharing sessions, live weaving demonstrations, and the State Handloom Award 2023–24 felicitation ceremony.
From August 7 to 9, cultural performances will light up the evenings, including Odissi and Sambalpuri folk dances, contemporary acts, fashion shows, and a laser show, offering a glimpse into Odisha’s vibrant cultural fabric.
The exhibition grounds will host 60 stalls, a food court, and a play zone, making it an engaging experience for all age groups.
The week-long celebration aims to promote Odisha’s handloom legacy, celebrate its artisans, and foster knowledge-sharing across the textile ecosystem.
