Location

Kotpad, Koraput district (Southern Odisha)

This cosy little village lends its name to its most celebrated export: the Kotpad handloom - the first item from the state of Odisha to receive a GI tag.

Weaving community

Mirgans

The whole community nurtures this living tradition, assigning it the largest room in their homes. Members of each family have designated roles. The men are the weavers, while the women take care of the elaborate dyeing process.

Textile features

Kotpad fabric is a heavyweight un-dyed cotton, balanced beautifully with reds, maroons and browns. The dyes used are 100% natural - extracted from the roots of the local aal tree. The extra weft motifs typically include crabs, umbrellas, huts and fish.