PM Modi Showcases Odisha Ikat in Diplomatic Gift to Indonesia
Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented an Odisha Ikat handloom to Indonesian Parliament Speaker Puan Maharani during his recent visit, highlighting India’s rich textile heritage.
Known locally as Bandha, Odisha Ikat is crafted using a unique tie‑and‑dye technique where yarns are dyed before weaving.
The fabric is celebrated for its curvilinear motifs, feathery edges, and reversible patterns, making it a symbol of Odisha’s cultural identity.
Weaving hubs such as Sambalpur, Nuapatna, and Bargarh have preserved this centuries‑old tradition, passing it down through generations.
By gifting this handloom, Modi not only honoured local artisans but also strengthened cultural diplomacy between India and Indonesia.
The gesture is expected to boost global recognition of Odisha Ikat, reinforcing its place as a timeless treasure in India’s textile legacy.
