Ramraj Cotton Launches Panchaa to Empower Odisha's Tribal Women

By: Women Entrepreneurs Review Team | Thursday, 13 August 2026

Ramraj Cotton introduced Panchaa in Odisha, bringing its latest handloom creation to the region that inspired its identity. The new Dhoti draws from the traditional Santhali weave of Mayurbhanj and gives the indigenous craft a contemporary expression for modern Indian consumers.

The Odisha launch was held in Bhubaneswar in the presence of Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha, who attended as the Chief Guest. Bindu Vinodhan, Founder of the Mauna Dhwani Foundation, was the Guest of Honor, while B.R. Arun Eashwar, Managing Director of Ramraj Cotton, also attended the event.

The launch also brought together tribal women weavers from Mayurbhanj, whose generations-old skills are central to the making of Panchaa. Their participation highlighted the deep connection between the product and Odisha’s indigenous textile traditions, making the launch a celebration of both the craft and the communities preserving it.

Key Highlights:

• Panchaa brings Mayurbhanj’s traditional Santhali weave to modern consumers
• The initiative creates sustainable livelihood opportunities for tribal women weavers
• The handwoven Dhoti combines Odisha’s heritage with contemporary craftsmanship

Commenting on the launch, The Culturepreneur, K.R. Nagarajan, Founder & Chairman, Ramraj Cotton, said, “It is a privilege to unveil Panchaa here in Odisha, the birthplace of the beautiful Santhali weave of Mayurbhanj, and to do so in the presence of the women weavers and artisan communities who have preserved this remarkable tradition for generations. Today is not just the launch of a new Dhoti, but a celebration of their craftsmanship, dedication and cultural heritage. At Ramraj Cotton, we believe that India’s rich textile traditions deserve to be seen, valued and worn by more people. Through Panchaa, we have respectfully reimagined this unique weave in a contemporary form while staying true to its authenticity. We hope this initiative brings greater recognition to the craft, creates meaningful livelihood opportunities for the weaving community, and encourages future generations to continue this proud legacy.”

Speaking at the event, B.R. Arun Eashwar, Managing Director, Ramraj Cotton, said, “For us, Panchaa is not just a product launch, it is a livelihood revival model. Our approach was to build a viable commercial pathway for this heritage by converting the weave into a Dhoti, one of the most consistently in-demand garments in India. Apart from being known for its quality products, Ramraj Cotton has long been known for sustaining the livelihoods of thousands of weavers across South India. The launch of Panchaa is our commitment to carry this same responsibility forward, and build livelihoods for weaver communities beyond South India as well.”

Panchaa reflects Ramraj Cotton’s continued commitment to bringing India’s lesser-known weaving traditions into the mainstream while creating renewed recognition and sustainable livelihood opportunities for the tribal women weavers who have preserved this unique craft across generations.

Traditionally woven as sarees by women of the Santhali tribal community in Mayurbhanj, this distinctive Santhali weave has gradually faded from prominence over the decades due to declining patronage, changing lifestyles and limited market opportunities.

Recognizing both its artistic value and its potential for contemporary relevance, K.R. Nagarajan, Founder & Chairman, Ramraj Cotton, reimagined the Santhali weave in the form of a Dhoti through Panchaa, creating a new avenue for the craft while preserving its authenticity.

Panchaa retains the traditional character of the weave while giving it wider contemporary relevance. Each piece is hand-woven in 100% cotton with an off-white base and azo-free dyes, combining a plain weave with an extra-weft technique, reflecting the remarkable skill and craftsmanship of the women weavers of Mayurbhanj who continue to practice this generations-old tradition.