Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS), functioning under the Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Department, has launched ‘Rangotsav-2026’ at the State Institute for Rural Development & Panchayati Raj (SIRD & PR) campus in Bhubaneswar.
The primary objective of the event is to promote safe and eco-friendly Holi celebrations while providing a sustainable market platform for women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
According to an official release, the fair showcases not only natural colours but also a wide range of rural products, including Odisha’s traditional delicacies, fine handicrafts, and handmade household items.
On the occasion, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, and Drinking Water Minister Rabi Narayan Naik welcomed the initiative and said that Rangotsav was a beautiful blend of safe colours and women’s empowerment. He added that using natural colours prepared by SHG women could help protect the environment while supporting the rural economy. He urged everyone to adopt and promote local products.
ORMAS Chief Executive Officer Monika Priyadarshini said that Rangotsav reflects the skills of rural women entrepreneurs of Odisha. She stated that ORMAS is committed to connecting them with modern markets and giving their hard work a distinct identity. She further added that improved packaging and branding are helping position these products in mainstream markets.
With support from Rural Industrial Parks in Ganjam district, SHG women have prepared chemical-free herbal gulal using natural ingredients such as turmeric, beetroot, and flowers, making the colours completely safe for the skin and the environment.
The fair also offers traditional Odia food items, handicrafts, and handmade household products. The platform enables rural women to directly reach urban customers without any middlemen.
The fair will continue until March 4 at the SIRD campus located in Unit-8, Bhubaneswar.
