Bhubaneswar: Women-led startups from across Odisha are raking in the moolah at the ongoing Toshali Swadeshi Mela, which is showcasing artisans and weavers from across 20 states. The women entrepreneurs are displaying a diverse range of homegrown products — from moringa-based health supplements to millet snacks and herbal cosmetics.Among the prominent exhibitors is Surekha Routray, who runs a production unit in Patia. She launched her startup two-and-a-half years ago focusing on moringa-based products, banking on the plant’s immunity-boosting properties. “Moringa is very good for lungs and overall immunity. After the pandemic, people have become more conscious about preventive healthcare,” Routray said, adding, “We prepare everything in a hygienic manner.”Her stall offers over 25 varieties of food items, including moringa tea, snacks, chawanprash, chips and cookies. The products are priced between Rs 80 and Rs 600, making them affordable for a wide section of customers.“We are getting a very encouraging response. Almost 70% of the stocks are sold out, Many customers are repeat buyers who specifically come looking for our products,” Routray added.Another startup by two sisters, which has a manufacturing unit based in Forest Park area of Bhubaneswar, is drawing a huge crowd as well, with its premium couverture, millet chocolates and handcrafted truffles. The brand’s success story is powered by two sisters, Rita and Shanta Baliarsingh, who have blended traditional Odia flavours into exquisite chocolates.“Our aim is to bring the authentic taste of Odisha into every chocolate we craft. The overwhelming response at Toshali motivates us to innovate more,” Rita said.“The footfall has been tremendous and many customers are placing bulk and corporate gifting orders,” Rita added.The startup offers millet chocolates and snacks priced from Rs 20 to Rs 3,500, including customised corporate gifting hampers.Ananya Das, founder of a herbal beauty and cosmetics brand at the mela, is promoting beauty and cosmetic products made from natural ingredients.“People are gradually shifting from chemical-based cosmetics to herbal alternatives. Events like Toshali give small entrepreneurs like us a big platform to connect directly with the customers and people’s response here has been mindblowing. We would love to come again,” Das said.Abhisek Panigrahi, a visitor at the mela, said, “The presence of women entrepreneurs has added a new vibrancy to the fair. With a mix of traditional crafts and innovative startups, the Toshali Swadeshi Mela continues to serve as a launchpad for Odisha’s emerging women-led enterprises.”The Mela, which began on Feb 14 at Janata Maidan, will conclude on Feb 26.
