Gopalpur Young Weavers Transform Tradition into Global Success
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The serene village of Gopalpur in Odisha is witnessing a remarkable transformation, where young artisans are turning a centuries-old weaving tradition into a thriving modern enterprise. Known for its Tussar silk, the region once struggled with declining interest in the craft due to poor earnings and lack of market exposure. Many youngsters left weaving behind to seek livelihoods in cities. Today, however, a new generation of weavers is reshaping that story, blending heritage with innovation to create a sustainable future.
Ajay Kumar Guin, a 30-year-old artisan, embodies this revival. After watching his parents battle hardship on the loom, he now leads a team of 35 weavers under the banner of Gopalpur Handloom Sarees. With the help of digital platforms, Ajay connects directly with buyers across the US, UK, and Australia. His workshop generates revenue of nearly Rs 8 lakh annually, and artisans now earn between Rs 10,000 and Rs 12,000 per month. Each saree, crafted over 25 painstaking days, carries not only intricate design but also the resilience of a community reclaiming its craft.
Another young entrepreneur, 26-year old Siba Prasad Das, brings experimentation to the fore through SPD Handloom, offering dupattas, stoles, and sarees. Both Ajay and Siba credit their growth to Antaran, a Tata Trusts program that imparted training in design, branding, and marketing, helping them adapt traditional weaving to modern consumer demand.
Adding depth to this revival is master weaver Srikanta Das of Sripriya Handlooms, a national merit award winner whose premium tussar creations, priced up to Rs 55,000, find homes in markets abroad.
Together, these artisans are weaving not just fabric but a renewed legacy, proving that tradition infused with innovation can create both pride and prosperity. Gopalpur’s looms now echo a story of revival, resilience, and global recognition.
12:11 PM, Aug 19
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