Plan To Start Odisha Unit In 2020: Fashion Designer Bibhu Mohapatra

Bhubaneswar: Globally-renowned fashion designer Bibhu Mohapatra is in Bhubaneswar to attend the Make in Odisha Conclave 2018, the state’s biennial flagship investors meet.

The valedictory session on Tuesday will have a fashion show curated by the Odisha-born designer. In an email interview with Odisha Bytes, he spoke about his roots, the conclave and the fashion industry, besides his future plans.

Q 1. How do you feeling about being invited to the valedictory session of the ‘Make In Odisha’ conclave?
I feel thrilled, honoured and humbled by this invitation and it’s great to be back on my soil.

Q2. What does ‘I am Odisha’ mean to you?
To me, it means that the Odia people are adaptable and ready for any challenge. They are ready for the future and empowered by today.

Q3. How has the fashion scene changed in Odisha?
Having NIFT in Bhubaneswar was a game changer. An amazing amount of talent is coming out of Odisha.

Q4. How does the world view Odisha handloom?
The ultimate luxury.

Q5. How would you describe the beauty of Odisha handloom?
A beautiful tradition that is unmatched in every way.

Q6. Tell us something about your journey from Rourkela to New York?
It has been an amazing journey mainly because of the people I have met along the way.

Q7. Who is your favourite celebrity, among those you have dressed?
I love our former First Lady Michelle Obama. She inspires me

Q8. What are you currently working on? Future plans?
I am working on my 10-year anniversary collection to be unveiled in February 2019. I plan to start production in India and perhaps also in Odisha by 2020. Also a new fine jewellery collection in collaboration with De Beers.