Bhubaneswar: The vibrant annual rural fair, Sisir Saras 2026, officially kicks off in Bhubaneswar, turning the IDCO Exhibition Ground into a bustling hub of culture, commerce, and craftsmanship. Organized by ORMAS under the Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Department, in collaboration with Mission Shakti, the event promises to be a grand celebration of rural entrepreneurship.
Running from January 10 to 18, the fair is set to showcase the diverse heritage of India, with a special spotlight on Odisha.
A Marketplace of Tradition With 340 sales stalls and 35 food courts, the venue has been conceptualized as a “Mini India Market.” Visitors can explore a rich array of indigenous products from 30 districts of Odisha and nearly 20 other states.
Treasures of Odisha: The fair features authentic handlooms from Bargarh, Sambalpur, and Subarnapur; intricate lac crafts from Balasore; and golden grass artistry from Kendrapada. Shoppers can also find tribal woodcrafts from Kandhamal, terracotta from Balangir, and organic staples like Koraput’s black rice and lemongrass.
Pan-India Attractions: The cultural exchange extends beyond the state, featuring Kalamkari from Andhra Pradesh, Pashmina woollens from J&K, Phulkari from Punjab, and exquisite Kosa and Tussar silks from Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand.
Empowerment & Eco-Consciousness The event is not just about sales; it is about skill-building. Organizers have scheduled six workshops for 850 SHG and CBO members, focusing on modern branding, packaging, and market competitiveness. In line with environmental values, the fair grounds are strictly plastic-free, featuring eco-friendly lighting and amenities.
Festivities & Goals To keep the energy high, the fair will host daily cultural programs, including fashion shows, kite and drone displays, and a special musical tribute night dedicated to Humane Sagar.
With a cumulative sales target of Rs 30 crore, Minister Rabi Narayan Naik has hailed the event as a pivotal step toward an “Atmanirbhar Odisha,” urging the public to support the “Vocal for Local” movement and make the event a resounding success.
-OdishaAge
