Demand for Sambalpuri sarees on the rage in Chhattisgarh

Raipur: Sambalpuri pattern sarees, renowned for their splendid motifs, are becoming increasingly popular in Chhattisgarh, attracting attention for their unique designs and cultural significance. The manufacturing of these traditional sarees in the RIPA region of Raigarh district has provided livelihood opportunities for local women, aligning with the state’s policy of encouraging home-grown enterprises through RIPA.By adopting the policy of encouraging local enterprises through RIPA, a large number of women are earning a livelihood by manufacturing Sambalpuri pattern sarees in Raigarh. Its work is being carried out in Tarda Gauthan of the Pusaur development block of Raigarh district, the government release read.Two-and-a-half months ago, the venture was started by the Navsparsh Mahila Foundation, and currently, 22 women are associated with this work. A 5cm manual Japanese Jacart machine has been installed, which allows for fine work to be done on pattern sarees.Many motifs are used in the design, with half the work done by the machine and the other half by the artists’ own creativity and understanding of Sambalpuri saree art. Experts have come from Sonpur to provide training to the artists.The work is also being done on making Odia shirts, suit pieces, and Sambalpuri Kapta patterns (sarees), pat sarees, as mentioned in the release.The cost of a saree ranges from three thousand to twelve thousand rupees. Along with Raigarh, Pusaur, these sarees also have a market in Sundergarh, and they are being sold in good numbers. Recently, an order for Bumkai sarees has arrived, consisting of 150 sarees with a total order value of 10 lakh. Similarly, there is also an order for a suit piece, which is 50 meters long and costs Rs. 50,000.The major market for Sambalpuri sarees is in Raigad, as it is an area connected to Odisha, and there is a huge demand for them. The Rath Yatra is very popular in Odisha, and motifs like conch, chakra and flowers associated with Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra ji are featured in the sarees. The selection of colours and the artistry in drawing these motifs adds immense beauty to the Sambalpuri sarees.Two months ago, a video of the Manchester Marathon in the UK went viral, featuring the participation of Madhusmita Jena, a high school teacher residing in Manchester. Madhusmita successfully completed the 42 km marathon in an impressive 4 hours and 50 minutes, donning a stunning Sambalpuri saree. This event garnered immense praise for both Madhusmita’s run and the rich Indian clothing tradition. Sambalpuri sarees, once beloved by erstwhile Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, are now in high demand in Chhattisgarh and regions adjacent to Odisha, as mentioned in the release.