Bhubaneswar: In a vibrant tribute to India's rich textile heritage, Utkaliyas, a collective of women dedicated to preserving cultural traditions, marked National Handloom Day alongside a milestone 10th anniversary with a grand celebration centered on the theme “Poorvi Charkha: Celebrating Weaves of East and North East India.”

The event brought together nearly 80 women, all draped in exquisite handloom sarees representing the deep artistic lineages of Odisha, West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Assam, and the North Eastern states. Far beyond a mere gathering, the afternoon highlighted the enduring passion modern women hold for traditional textiles—a love affair that directly breathes life and economic vitality into artisan communities across the region.

The event was graced by eminent stalwarts of the craft, including Guests of Honour Padmashree Sarat Kumar Patra, master weaver from the famed Nuapatna cluster, and national awardee Surendra Kumar Patra. Guest Speaker Susmita Mishra, founder of Magic of Sarees, delivered an inspiring talk on the cultural significance of conscious drape choices and the impact of direct consumer appreciation on weaver livelihoods.

The showcase unfolded through a soulful tapestry of music, featuring a captivating blend of folk melodies from the eastern and north-eastern states. The highlight of the day was a gracefully orchestrated ramp walk, where members showcased complex weaves—from intricate Ikat and Bomkai to delicate Eri and Muga silks—transforming the runway into a living gallery of Indian heritage.

By spotlighting the handloom traditions of East and North East India, Utkaliyas reinforced a vital message: every handloom saree worn is not just a personal style statement, but a direct investment in the hands that weave them, ensuring these centuries-old crafts continue to flourish for generations to come.