Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s rich handloom heritage and the resilience of its weaving community took centre stage as the state government organised a special screening of the award-winning Odia feature film ‘Mehermunda’ at the State Convention Centre in Lok Seva Bhawan on Saturday. The event witnessed the participation of ministers, senior IAS officers, government officials, and members of the film fraternity, all of whom praised the film for its authentic portrayal of the lives, struggles, and achievements of Odisha’s weavers.
The screening was organised under the aegis of the Handlooms, Textiles & Handicrafts Department, reflecting the state government’s continued efforts to promote Odisha’s traditional crafts and cultural heritage.
Ministers and Senior Officials Attend the Screening
The special screening was attended by Handlooms, Textiles & Handicrafts Minister Pradeep Bal Samanta, Industries, Skill Development & Technical Education Minister Sampad Chandra Swain, Handlooms, Textiles & Handicrafts Department Secretary Guha Poonam Tapas Kumar, Director of Handlooms & Textiles Somesh Kumar Upadhyay, Director of Handicrafts Dr. Nivedita Prusti, Managing Director of Utkalika Pratap Chandra Hota, Additional Director (Silk) Surya Narayan Pattnaik, and Managing Director of Odisha Forest Development Corporation (OFDC) Jyoti Ranjan Panda.
Senior officers of the department, along with members of the cast and crew of Mehermunda, also participated in the event.
Film Showcases Odisha’s Handloom Heritage
Produced by GR Records, Mehermunda is an Odia feature film based on the lives of Odisha’s weaving community. The film portrays the challenges faced by traditional weavers, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, while highlighting how many artisans successfully preserved their centuries-old craft and sustained their livelihoods through digital and online marketing initiatives.
The film captures the cultural richness of Odisha’s handloom tradition while showcasing the determination and resilience of artisans in overcoming economic hardships.
Minister Pradeep Bal Samanta Praises Authentic Portrayal
Handlooms, Textiles & Handicrafts Minister Pradeep Bal Samanta described Mehermunda as a vivid and authentic depiction of Odisha’s traditional handloom heritage, art, and culture.
He said the film effectively showcases the invaluable contribution of the weaving community in preserving the state’s cultural identity and promoting Odisha’s rich textile traditions.
Sampad Chandra Swain Calls Film an Inspiration
Industries, Skill Development & Technical Education Minister Sampad Chandra Swain said the film has the potential to touch the hearts of every Odia while inspiring society to reconnect with Odisha’s cultural roots.
He observed that Mehermunda reinforces the state’s cultural identity and pays tribute to generations of weavers whose craftsmanship has earned Odisha international recognition.
Secretary Guha Poonam Tapas Kumar Highlights Emotional Connect
Department Secretary Guha Poonam Tapas Kumar described Mehermunda as much more than a feature film, calling it a heartfelt tribute to the struggles, creativity, and dedication of Odisha’s artisan community.
She said the film beautifully captures the emotions, perseverance, and artistic excellence of Odisha’s weavers while serving as a symbol of Odia pride and identity. According to her, the film is dedicated to the countless weaver families whose contributions have preserved the state’s rich handloom legacy.
Producer Highlights Purpose Behind the Film
Film producer Rakesh Kumar Padhi said Mehermunda was created to bring before society the untold history, struggles, and invaluable contributions of Odisha’s weaving community.
He said the film also seeks to promote Odisha’s handloom heritage, textile traditions, and artistic excellence at both the national and international levels.
Handloom and Handicraft Exhibition Draws Appreciation
Alongside the screening, exhibition stalls set up by Utkalika, Boyanika, and Sambalpuri Bastralaya displayed an impressive collection of Odisha’s handloom textiles, handicrafts, and traditional artisan products.
The visiting dignitaries toured the exhibition stalls and appreciated the craftsmanship, creativity, and cultural richness reflected in the products showcased by local artisans.
Award-Winning Film with Global Recognition
Mehermunda has already earned significant recognition for its powerful social message and cinematic excellence, winning three international awards.
To promote awareness about Odisha’s weaving traditions, the film has also been screened across several districts of the state for students and the general public.
Recognising its contribution towards preserving and promoting Odisha’s handloom legacy, the Government of Odisha declared the film tax-free on June 9, 2026.
Earlier, on National Handloom Day on August 8, 2025, the film’s trailer was unveiled by the Chief Minister in the presence of nearly 1,500 weavers, highlighting the government’s commitment to promoting Odisha’s handloom sector.
Prominent Cast
The film features Jyoti Ranjan Nayak, Rakesh Kumar Padhi, Sushanta Das Mahapatra, and Arlin Ankita in key roles.
