Bhubaneswar, January 10: The 9-day Sisir Saras–2026 Mega Handloom & Handicrafts Fair was inaugurated today by Minister Gokula Nanda Mallik at the IDCO Exhibition Ground. The event celebrates rural art, women entrepreneurship, and indigenous products.
Minister Mallik emphasized that the fair promotes self-reliance and offers a platform for rural artisans, especially women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs), to showcase their products. The fair connects rural producers with urban markets, ensuring economic independence for local craftsmen.
BMC Mayor Sulochana Das and MLA Ananta Narayan Jena also attended, praising the event’s role in preserving Odisha's cultural heritage and generating employment.
The fair features 340 stalls, with artisans from all 30 districts of Odisha and 20 other states. Products include handlooms, Kalajeera rice, and millet from Odisha’s tribal regions. A business target of Rs. 30 crores has been set.
Cultural performances, food courts, selfie points, and a play zone enhance the visitor experience.
The event is plastic-free and features traditional Jhoti art at the venue. Sisir Saras is open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM until January 18, 2026.
