Cuttack, Odisha | August 6, 2025 — As Raksha Bandhan approaches, women self-help groups (SHGs) and producer groups in Cuttack district have unveiled a unique collection of eco-friendly handmade rakhis, blending tradition, sustainability, and entrepreneurship.
Supported by the Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS), these women artisans are crafting beautiful rakhis using natural materials such as cow dung, bamboo, and palm leaves. Each rakhi is intricately designed with threadwork and fabric art, offering a sustainable and artistic alternative to mass-produced varieties.
The rakhi shop was formally inaugurated on Monday by Cuttack Collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde at the Annapurna Gramin Bazar, located near the Zilla Parishad office. ORMAS Joint CEO Bipin Bihari Rout, who was present at the event, highlighted how the initiative not only reinforces the cultural significance of Raksha Bandhan but also promotes women’s economic empowerment by creating seasonal income opportunities.
“These eco-friendly rakhis reflect the skill, dedication, and creativity of the women artisans. They are not only affordable but also unique in design, which has attracted significant interest from the market,” said Rout.
The women involved hail from blocks such as Salepur, Dampada, and Cuttack Sadar, and have taken up rakhi-making as a livelihood venture. With increasing demand, many local retailers and shopkeepers are placing bulk orders, helping expand the reach of SHG-led microenterprises and contribute to the rural economy.
Rout added, “This initiative is a shining example of how traditional craftsmanship, when combined with modern market needs, can lead to sustainable economic growth and cultural preservation.”
Officials including DIPRO Bhabani Shankar Bhuyan were also present during the event, extending support to the women-led movement that symbolizes self-reliance and eco-conscious celebration.
