The story
Weavers of the Meher community in western Odisha developed bandha, where yarn is tied and dyed in patterns before weaving. Bargarh, Sambalpur and Sonepur villages hold thousands of looms, many organised in weavers' cooperatives. Sambalpuri Bandha and Bomkai sarees are GI-registered and sold through Boyanika and private traders.
In numbers
No published source we could open prints current numbers for this cluster.
GI tag
- Sambalpuri Bandha Saree & FabricsApplication no. Application No. 208Registration details of Geographical Indications (state-wise register), IP India
- Bomkai Saree & FabricsApplication no. Application No. 217Registration details of Geographical Indications (state-wise register), IP India
- Orissa IkatApplication no. Application No. 22Registration details of Geographical Indications (state-wise register), IP India
Ways in for a newcomer
- Sell Sambalpuri sarees and ikat fabric online and to boutiques
- Pre-loom services: yarn dyeing and tie-and-dye design work
- Make ikat garments and home textiles from woven fabric
Problems the cluster faces
- Powerloom and printed copies of ikat
- Low wages driving young weavers away
- Yarn price rises
Businesses to start here
Handloom and Handicrafts Retail Shop →Saree Dyeing and Printing →Textile Made-Ups (Napkins, Mats, Aprons) →Handloom Gamcha (Loin Cloth) →