Sonpur, Aug 1 (UDN): A remarkable handwoven Sambalpuri Bandha silk saree from Subarnapur district has captured attention for its unique design and heartfelt tribute to the region’s language, culture, and traditions on the occasion of Sambalpuri Din.
The special saree was created by Himanchal Meher, a third-generation weaver from Haradkhol village under Sonpur block, whose craftsmanship has transformed a piece of fabric into a celebration of Sambalpuri identity.
Inspired by the contribution of Guru Satya Narayan Bohidar, who dedicated his life to preserving and promoting Sambalpuri language and literature, Meher designed the saree as a tribute to the cultural legacy of western Odisha.
The saree features woven messages celebrating Sambalpuri life and traditions, including phrases encouraging people to speak, sing, dance, wear, and celebrate Sambalpuri culture. The intricate Bandha work reflects the artistic excellence and heritage of Subarnapur’s handloom tradition.
Creating the saree required months of preparation, including yarn dyeing, design development, and loom arrangements. The final weaving took around 12 days, with support from his wife Parbati and family members.
Crafted using five colours, the saree highlights the beauty of Sambalpuri Bandha weaving. The concept was developed by renowned Bandha artist Guru Prafulla Meher, adding further artistic depth to the creation.
Meher has produced two such special sarees, each priced at around ₹25,000, and hopes that increasing appreciation for traditional handloom will create more opportunities for local artisans.
This unique creation is more than a garment — it is a woven expression of pride, preserving the cultural voice of Sambalpuri heritage while carrying it to a wider audience.