THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, APRIL 16, 2026

Bhubaneswar is fast emerging as a major fashion hub in eastern India, Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) Mayor Sulochana Das said while inaugurating the 14th edition of “Kirti Kalpana 2026,” the annual graduate fashion show of the School of Fashion Technology, KIIT University, here on Thursday.

Highlighting the city’s rising prominence, Das noted that Bhubaneswar has already evolved into a national centre for fashion. She commended KIIT and KISS Founder Dr Achyuta Samanta for bringing prestigious events such as Femina Miss India to the city, further elevating its profile on the national stage. The grand finale of the show is scheduled to be held on April 18 at the KIIT campus.

Natasha Grover, National Director and Brand & Operations Head of the Miss India Organization, expressed her delight at being part of the event. Recalling her student days, she said the occasion brought back fond memories. She highlighted the enriching journey of the 30 state winners of Miss India, adding that their experiences in Odisha have been deeply meaningful. “The moment you take people along with you, you have achieved success. Be honest — hard work always pays off,” she advised.

Renowned Delhi-based fashion designer Anuj Durga Sharma shared valuable insights with the students, encouraging them to embrace innovation while adhering to sustainability-driven design philosophies.

KIIT Vice Chancellor Prof Saranjit Singh urged students to pursue their dreams with sincerity and purpose. “Whatever you aspire to become, be a true ambassador of KIIT and KISS and, above all, a good human being,” he said.

The programme also featured the felicitation of guests, jury members and student achievers, along with the launch of the event brochure. Show segments presented creative collections by graduating students, reflecting innovation, craftsmanship and contemporary design sensibilities.

Dean, SFT, SFMS and SMC, Dr Rajeev Kumar Panda also addressed the gathering. The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Prof Bauri Raula.