TV
With the vision to take Odisha’s Ikat heritage to a global platform and ensure sustainable livelihood for the weavers behind this timeless craft, Odisha Television Group has launched an innovative and purpose-driven e-commerce platform, ‘Ikatan’. The launch took place on the auspicious occasion of Niladri Bije, adding cultural significance to this promising new beginning.
The initiative was spearheaded by Jagi Mangat Panda, Co-founder and Managing Director of OTV Network, who said that Ikatan is more than just a marketplace— it’s a commitment to Odisha’s art, culture, and the artisans who carry forward this legacy.
At a time when handlooms like Banarasi and Chanderi receive national and international promotion through celebrity endorsements and major platforms, Odisha’s Ikat weaving tradition is set to receive a similar boost through Ikatan, for the first time.
Speaking on the occasion, Panda said that every saree sold on Ikatan will carry value beyond fabric, and it will directly benefit the artisan community by supporting their livelihoods, improving their training, and ensuring that their craft reaches the respect and recognition it truly deserves.
‘Ikatan - To Give Ikat Recognition It Truly Deserves’
“Ikatan is a new chapter for Ikat sarees. Ikat has always been close to my heart. Banarasi, Chanderi, and Jamdani weaves have carved out their identities in the fashion world, but Odisha’s Ikat is yet to receive the recognition it truly deserves. Through Ikatan, we aim to give Ikat the same status and platform. This initiative is not about building a brand for accolades; it's about the welfare and upliftment of our weavers. We are launching it first as an e-commerce platform to ensure global reach and accessibility,” said Panda.
To amplify the reach and creative edge of the platform, Ikatan has collaborated with internationally acclaimed fashion designer Bibhu Mohapatra, whose roots lie in Odisha, but his work is admired globally. With his involvement, Ikatan will showcase Odisha’s Ikat in a modern, globally appealing format while preserving its authenticity.
“As Ikat is already a classic weave, we have collaborated with designer Bibhu Mohapatra to show the world that Ikat has everything it takes to be globally recognised. Besides, we will launch a non-designer line under Ikatan, which will be more affordable without compromising on originality or craftsmanship,” she added.
The elegant silk Ikat sarees, carefully woven by skilled artisans, beautifully reflect the richness of Odia tradition and culture while telling a powerful story of India’s handloom legacy.
