Odisha's Sambalpuri saree finds special place in PM Modi's Mann ki Baat

New Delhi (28/07/2024): Odisha’s Sambalpuri saree, which has created a unique identity worldwide for its distinct handloom designs, found a special place in the 112th edition of Mann Ki Baat programme of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday. While delivering his monthly radio broadcast, the Prime Minister said, "We will celebrate the National Handloom Day on August 7.

The way handloom products have made their place in the hearts of people is very successful and tremendous.

The artisans in different parts of the country are engaged in making handloom popular.

Be it the Sambalpuri saree of Odisha, Maheswari saree of Madhya Pradesh, Paithani of Maharashtra, or the hand block prints of Vidarbha, the Bhutiko shawls and woollen clothes of Himachal or the Kani shawls of Jammu & Kashmir, the work of handloom artisans is spread across every corner of the country." Stating that many private companies are also promoting handloom products and sustainable fashion through Artificial Intelligence (AI), the PM said Kosha AI, Handloom India, D-Junk, Novatax, Brahmaputra Fables, and many such start-ups are also engaged in making handloom products popular.

I am also happy to see that many people are engaged in making such local products of their place popular, said PM Modi. He urged the nation to support the Indian athletes during the Paris Olympics. A country can progress only by taking pride in its culture.

Many such efforts are being made in India, one of which is Project Pari.

You might have noticed the beautiful paintings on roadside walls and in underpasses.

These artworks are created by artists associated with Project Pari, PM Modi added. The PM introduced 'Manas', a new helpline for drug rehabilitation.

The government has also issued a toll-free number 1933.

Anyone can call this number to receive necessary advice or information related to rehabilitation.