Paperman Media ( Bhubaneswar )- Odisha’s rich tribal textile heritage received a fresh lease of life with the unveiling of Panchaa™, a contemporary handwoven dhoti inspired by the traditional Santhali weave of Mayurbhanj.
The Odisha launch of the new handloom offering by Ramraj Cotton was held in Bhubaneswar in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo as Chief Guest, Mauna Dhwani Foundation founder Bindu Vinodhan as Guest of Honour and Ramraj Cotton Managing Director B.R. Arun Eashwar. Representatives of tribal women weavers from Mayurbhanj also attended the event.
Traditionally woven as sarees by women of the Santhali tribal community, the distinctive Mayurbhanj weave has faced declining patronage and limited market opportunities over the years. Panchaa seeks to revive the craft by adapting it into a dhoti while retaining its traditional character, motifs and weaving techniques.
Each Panchaa is handwoven in 100 per cent cotton, featuring an off-white base, azo-free dyes, plain weave and an extra-weft technique. The initiative has been developed in collaboration with Mayurbhanj’s weaving communities, ensuring that the authenticity of the centuries-old craft remains intact.
Ramraj Cotton Chairman K.R. Nagarajan said the initiative was aimed at giving greater recognition to the artisans and creating meaningful livelihood opportunities.
The company described Panchaa not merely as a new product but as a livelihood revival model, seeking to connect Odisha’s indigenous craftsmanship with contemporary markets.
Panchaa is available at select Ramraj Cotton Exclusive Stores and through its online platform.
