India, July 13 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented an Odisha Ikat handloom to Indonesian Parliament Speaker Puan Maharani during his visit.

Popularly known as Bandha, Odisha Ikat is one of the state's most renowned handloom silk traditions. The textile is crafted using a complex tie-and-dye technique in which the yarn is tied and dyed before weaving. This meticulous process creates intricate designs with rich textures, identical patterns on both sides of the fabric, and distinctive curvilinear motifs featuring soft, feathery edges.

The craft is practised in major weaving centres such as Sambalpur, Nuapatna and Bargarh. Over the years, Odisha Ikat has become a symbol of the state's cultural identity and exceptional craftsmanship.T...