Bhubaneswar: A delegation from Indonesia, which visited National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) campus here, has proposed to set up a chair to promote the rich historical ties between Odisha and the Southeast Asian nation.
Bali’s former governor and president of World Hindu Parishad Mangku Pastika suggested to name the chair after an Indonesian leader. The aim of the chair will be to promote research, debate and discuss historical ties through sustainable fashion, said a statement.
The setting up of the chair would align with NIFT’s plan to establish a ‘centre for sustainable fashion’ to popularise the production and use of natural and organically produced fibres and dies on the campus.
“We (Odisha & Indonesia) have a common heritage. Today when the entire world is talking about sustainability, we can re-establish our ties and work for the cause of sustainable development,” Pastika said.
Referring to ‘Ikat handloom products found only in Odisha and Indonesia, he said that it is a testimony to the ancient civilisational and cultural contacts enjoyed between the two places.