In a bid to popularise Odisha’s rich culture and handlooms in the 22nd Asian Athletics Championships (AAC)-2017 scheduled from July 5 at the Kalinga stadium here, the women athletes would wear Sambalpuri saree during the inaugural ceremony of the international athletic event.
Odisha’s traditional handloom saree would add colour to the event during its glittering inauguration when the women athletes holding the flags at march-past of the AAC would appear in Sambalpuri saree provided by the Boyanika, said Odisha Handlooms, Textiles & Handicrafts Secretary Chitra Arumugam.
With display of Sambalpuri saree, Odisha handlooms and textiles in the Asian meet, there would be an opportunity to enjoy a glimpse of the traditional work of Odisha at the stadium, she added.
Besides, the veteran sportspersons, who will participate in the AAC, would be gifted the silver filigree Konark Chakra, famous filigree works of Cuttack, traditional jewellery box, items made of palm leaves and shawl containing the traditional works of Odisha.
All the sportspersons would be felicitated during the event with Uttariya (a scarf-like piece of cloth) and Kotapada cloth made from organic colours.