Odisha's Green Queen shines at Toshali Crafts Mela 2026
Bhubaneswar (By Abhishek Mohanty): Although the Toshali Swadeshi Mela 2026, which kicked off on February 14 at Janta Maidan in Bhubaneswar, witnessed a slow start due to partial stall openings on the first evening and low footfall during Maha Shivratri, it has gradually gained momentum.
The fair brought together artisans and traders from across the country.
Visitors and traders have appreciated the improved layout, cleanliness, and enhanced amenities, including drinking water facilities in every row, hygienic toilets, and well-managed entry and exit gates.
Among the more than 900 stalls showcasing handloom garments, fabrics, home furnishings, décor items, jewellery, and utility products, one stall in particular has emerged as a major crowd-puller — Stall No. 539, allotted to Ecodarsini.
Ecodarsini is the brainchild of Priyadarsini Das, popularly known as the Green Queen of Odisha.
Her eco-friendly jewellery and accessories have been drawing significant attention from visitors of all age groups. Crafted with sustainability at its core, the products reflect a blend of traditional artistry and modern aesthetics.
Priyadarsini Das has been actively engaging with customers at the stall, explaining the concept behind eco-conscious fashion and the importance of sustainable lifestyle choices. Her innovative designs, made using environmentally friendly materials, have not only attracted buyers but also inspired many young entrepreneurs and students visiting the mela.
The row behind the institutional stalls - including those of the Weaver's Service Centre, TRIFED, SIDAC, Textile Committee, and SERIFED -has been witnessing heavy footfall largely due to the popularity of Ecodarsini’s stall.
Visitors are seen crowding around to explore the unique collection of handcrafted eco-jewellery and accessories.
Speaking to visitors, Priyadarsini Das emphasised the need to promote sustainable fashion while supporting local craftsmanship. Her stall has become a vibrant space of interaction, awareness, and appreciation for green initiatives within the handloom and handicraft ecosystem.
Apart from shopping, visitors are also enjoying evening cultural programmes and an impressive drone show, which are adding to the festive spirit of the mela.
The creatively designed double-decker décor bus restaurant near the food zone has also become a favourite selfie spot.
Despite an initially slow beginning, Toshali National Crafts Mela 2026 is steadily gaining pace, with entrepreneurs like Priyadarsini Das standing out as inspiring examples of innovation and sustainability in the handicrafts sector.
