Bhubaneswar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted a traditional Odisha Ikat handloom textile to Puan Maharani, Speaker of the Indonesian Parliament, during his official visit, showcasing India’s rich textile heritage and Odisha’s renowned weaving traditions on the global stage.
Popularly known as Bandha, Odisha Ikat is one of the state’s most celebrated handloom art forms. The textile is created using a highly skilled tie-and-dye technique, where yarns are carefully tied and dyed before the weaving process begins. This intricate method produces elaborate patterns, rich textures and designs that appear identical on both sides of the fabric.
Distinguished by its flowing curvilinear motifs and soft, feathered edges, Odisha Ikat reflects the remarkable craftsmanship and artistic precision of the state’s weaving communities.
The craft is primarily practised in weaving hubs such as Sambalpur, Nuapatna, and Bargarh, which have preserved and refined the tradition over generations. Odisha Ikat has earned national and international recognition for its vibrant colours, complex geometric and floral patterns, and unique weaving techniques.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the handloom tradition embodies Odisha’s cultural heritage, storytelling practices and the enduring legacy of its artisan communities. The gift highlights India’s commitment to promoting traditional crafts and supporting local artisans while strengthening cultural ties with international partners.
The presentation of the Odisha Ikat handloom to Puan Maharani underscores the growing global appreciation of India’s diverse handicrafts and the timeless elegance of Odisha’s textile traditions.
