Indigenous Textiles of Odisha: Cultural Continuity, Design Anthropology, and Sustainable Practices

Abstract

The indigenous textiles of Odisha represent centuries of cultural memory, identity expression, and ecological wisdom embedded within the practices of the Kotpad, Dongria Kondh, and Kurukh communities. These textiles are characterized by distinctive weaving traditions, natural dyeing practices, symbolic motifs, and community-based production systems that have evolved through intergenerational knowledge transfer. Although these crafts reflect sustainable, low-impact production rooted in local ecology, their survival is increasingly challenged by modernization, market dilution, and reduced youth participation. This manuscript critically examines the cultural, socio-economic, and environmental dimensions of Odisha's indigenous textiles, employing ethnographic fieldwork, archival analysis, and design anthropology methods. By applying frameworks of heritage preservation and sustainability theory, the study highlights how these textile traditions exemplify regenerative craft practices and contribute to debates on ethical fashion. A strengthened methodology, theoretical grounding, and discussion connecting literature with field data provide a comprehensive narrative. The study concludes by offering pathways for safeguarding cultural heritage while promoting sustainable livelihoods for indigenous weaving communities.