Sonpur: In a quiet village in Subarnapur district, the rhythmic clatter of a handloom has produced something extraordinary this year to mark Sambalpuri Din. Yes, you have heard it right.
Specially designed Bandha silk saree, crafted with messages of Sambalpuri pride, has emerged as the talking point of the town. Behind this unique piece of fabric is the patient labour and quiet passion of weaver Himanchal Meher, a 44-year-old third-generation weaver from Haradkhol village under Sonpur block in Subarnapur district.
Ommcom News, in a candid conversation with Meher, went deeper into the making of this remarkable saree. What began as a personal tribute to mark the birth anniversary of Late Guru Satya Narayan Bohidar gradually took the shape of a living canvas — one that speaks the language of tradition while carrying a contemporary cultural message.
Guru Bohidar is remembered for his lifelong efforts to promote and preserve the Sambalpuri language, literature and culture. The saree carries woven messages that celebrate every aspect of Sambalpuri identity.
The anchal (pallu) proudly states, “Ame Sambalpuria, Sambalpuri Din ra lagi gurdute subhechha” (We are Sambalpuri people. Many greetings on Sambalpuri Din). Across the body of the fabric run slogans such as ‘Speak Sambalpuri’, ‘Sing Sambalpuri, ‘Dance Sambalpuri’, ‘Wear Sambalpuri’ and ‘Eat Sambalpuri’.
Meher spent more than three months bringing the idea to life. While the actual weaving took about 12 days, the preparation which includes dyeing the silk yarn, creating the intricate Bandha design and setting the loom required careful work over several months. His wife Parbati and other family members worked alongside him at every stage.
“Sambalpuri Bandha fabric is finding a unique identity on the world stage. With new designs emerging through the efforts of artisans, I wanted to create something that truly represents our culture on this special day”, said the weaver who continues the family tradition for the last 24 years.
It is pertinent to mention that the concept for the saree was developed by nationally acclaimed Bandha artist Guru Prafulla Meher.
Using five colours, the saree showcases the refined Bandha weaving tradition for which Subarnapur district is renowned. Himanchal has so far woven only two such special sarees, each priced at Rs 25,000. He remains hopeful that growing demand will allow him to create more.
On Sambalpuri Din, his handwoven creation stands as both a tribute to Guru Satya Narayan Bohidar and a colourful reminder of the living heritage of western Odisha.
