Two Odisha Weavers Honoured By President Murmu On National Handloom Day

Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s handloom tradition received national recognition as two weavers from the state were honoured by President Droupadi Murmu during the 12th National Handloom Day celebrations held in New Delhi on Friday.

Bargarh-based weaver Ram Meher was conferred the Sant Kabir Handloom Award 2025, one of the country’s highest recognitions for excellence in handloom weaving. Prafulla Kumar Sahoo of Jagatsinghpur received the National Handloom Award 2025 for his contribution to the sector.

The awards recognise outstanding craftsmanship, innovation and dedication to preserving and advancing India’s handloom heritage.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi congratulated both awardees in a post on X, describing their achievement as a matter of pride for the state.

He said their skill, creativity and commitment had brought greater national attention to Odisha’s rich handloom legacy. The Chief Minister also praised their contribution to preserving the state’s cultural heritage and promoting its traditional weaving practices.

The recognition of the two weavers has further highlighted Odisha’s strong handloom traditions and the craftsmanship of its artisans on a national platform.