Boudh, August 6: A master weaver from Odisha's Boudh district has created a unique Sambalpuri Bandha saree that celebrates India's linguistic diversity. The handcrafted saree features all 22 languages recognized under the Constitution of India, symbolising the nation's "Unity in Diversity." The weaver, Surubabu Meher of Baunsuni village, has dedicated the creation to the nation and hopes to present it to President Droupadi Murmu ahead of Independence Day.

Renowned Bandha artisan Surubabu Meher from Baudia Sahi village in Baunsuni, Boudh district, has unveiled an extraordinary Sambalpuri silk saree titled "Bhasha Bandhan." The saree is a tribute to India's linguistic and cultural diversity, with all 22 constitutionally recognised languages intricately woven into its fabric.

Each thread of the saree carries scripts representing Odia, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Nepali, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, Urdu, Bodo, Santali, Maithili and Dogri. The pallu is adorned with the Ashoka Chakra and the national motto "Satyameva Jayate," reinforcing the spirit of national unity.

The masterpiece took nearly two months to complete, with Surubabu Meher and his family working tirelessly day and night. Designed especially for Independence Day, the saree is intended as a gift to President Droupadi Murmu, reflecting the country's rich linguistic heritage and the message of unity in diversity.

The unique creation has drawn widespread appreciation from art lovers and admirers of Sambalpuri handloom across the state.

For Surubabu Meher, the saree is more than a work of art—it is a tribute to patriotism.

“My father, the late Bishnu Charan Meher, was a freedom fighter who actively participated in the Boudh Garjat Movement. He was arrested on November 9, 1947, for campaigning against the autocratic rule of the princely state. Throughout his life, he remained deeply committed to the ideals of freedom, justice and patriotism. Inspired by his legacy, I chose to express the spirit of national unity through weaving. It is my family's heartfelt wish that this saree reaches Rashtrapati Bhavan and is accepted by President Droupadi Murmu. It would be a matter of immense pride for us if the President wears it during the Independence Day celebrations,” said Surubabu Meher.

“It took us nearly two months to weave the saree. Every member of our family contributed to its creation. My father, in particular, worked tirelessly until 2 a.m. on several nights to complete it. All our hard work and dedication would be truly rewarded if the Hon’ble President accepts the saree and wears it on Independence Day. Just as my father devoted himself to fulfilling his late father's dream, our entire family is now determined to fulfil our father's cherished wish,” said Surubabu Meher’s son.

Locals have also urged the district administration to facilitate the presentation of the saree to the President. They believe the remarkable creation not only showcases the excellence of Sambalpuri Bandha craftsmanship but also serves as a powerful symbol of India's unity in diversity, bringing pride to both Odisha and the nation.