After spending 15 years navigating the corporate world in Bengaluru, Richa Maheshwari decided to return to her roots and embark on an extraordinary journey. With a dream of preserving Odisha’s rich textile heritage, she founded Boito, a luxury label deeply inspired by the artisanal traditions of her home state.
This is her story—a tale of homecoming, rediscovery, and a mission to make a difference.
For Richa, the inspiration to start this brand came from a deeply personal journey. Growing up, she had lived in different parts of the country due to her father’s transferable job. However, her bond with Odisha remained strong.
After completing her engineering degree, she pursued a corporate career, but over the years, the connection to her heritage kept calling her back.
In 2022, she finally decided to take a break from work and explore rural Odisha.
Richa Maheshwari – Traveling Through Odisha
Richa’s travels took her across Odisha, where she met numerous weaving communities and artisans, each with their own unique craft. She visited Pipli, famous for its intricate applique work, and Nuapatna, where the stunning Khandua Ikat is woven.
Her journey continued to Sambalpur, Sonepur, and Barpalli, regions celebrated for their Sambalpuri textiles, as well as Koraput, home to the Kotpad weavers, who create beautiful shawls using natural dyes.
In Malkangiri, she met the Bonda tribes, and in Rayagada, the Dongria tribes, who are known not only for their distinct culture but also for their traditional textiles.
The Kapdaganda shawls, crafted by the Dongrias, depict the mountains surrounding their settlements, while the Bondas’ striking attire features intricate jewelry and accessories that reflect their unique identity.
“I saw firsthand how weaving and textile-making are central to the lives of these communities,” Richa shared. “The methods and motifs have been passed down for generations. But despite the beauty of their work, these artisans often struggle to make a living.”
The Birth of Boito
These experiences inspired Richa to find a way to preserve Odisha’s textile traditions while giving them a modern spin. She founded Boito, naming it after the ancient Odia maritime festival Boita Bandana, which celebrates the voyages of the Sadhabas — Odisha’s seafaring traders who sailed to distant lands for trade and cultural exchange.
From the beginning, Richa wanted the brand to stand for more than just clothing. She wanted to empower the weavers and artisans she had met during her travels and help their work reach a wider audience.
To bring this vision to life, she collaborated with designer Anshu Arora and a group of 15 weavers across Odisha. Together, they reimagined traditional weaves into contemporary garments, including trench coats, jumpsuits, tailored shirts, and dresses.
The Boito Journey So Far
Building this brand, however, was not without its challenges. Richa recalls how gaining the trust of weaving communities was one of her toughest hurdles.
“I approached a weaver with a request to craft sarees in specific colors, but he was hesitant and didn’t respond. It wasn’t just about placing an order—it was about building a relationship,” says Richa. “I learned the only way forward was to sit with them, listen to their stories, and truly understand their ethos—their values, working style, and creative approach.”
Muse: Sara Adhikari | Photographer: Tara Louise McManus
Muse: Sara Adhikari | Photographer: Tara Louise McManus
Boito’s first collection, titled “The Boito Beginnings,” debuted in Bhubaneswar and later made waves in Mumbai, where it was showcased at the renowned 47A gallery. The collection’s unique blend of tradition and modernity captivated Mumbai’s discerning audience.
The narrative continued in Delhi, where Boito’s work was unveiled at the iconic Bikaner House. An exclusive showcase at Whalesong, the art and design gallery in Goa, added another layer to the brand’s journey.
The brand thrives on a passionate and dedicated creative team. From photographers capturing the essence of the textiles to advisors offering strategic guidance, every member plays a critical role in preserving and sharing the authenticity of Odisha’s weaving traditions. Together, they curate wearable art, craft meaningful narratives, and create content that honors the artisans and their heritage.
Muse: Varsha Gopal | Photographer: Anand Naik
The brand extends beyond fashion; it serves as a revival of Odisha’s rich artisanal legacy, ensuring that traditional crafts not only survive but also thrive.
The brand stays committed to minimal design interventions, preserving the authentic spirit of the textiles while adapting them for modern consumers.
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At its core, Boito aims to empower local weavers and create entrepreneurial opportunities for them. The brand envisions adopting more villages, fostering sustainable livelihoods, and building a vibrant ecosystem for Odisha’s textile industry. By providing artisans with consistent work and fair compensation, the brand ensures their skills and heritage are valued and supported.
Looking ahead, Richa envisions expanding the brand’s presence across India and onto international platforms. She plans to collaborate with more rural weavers and experiment with new collections that honor and celebrate Odisha’s cultural legacy.
Boito is about to present an immersive installation at the prestigious India Art Fair 2025, offering a fresh perspective that fuses tradition with contemporary creativity.
“With Boito, my goal is to bring Odisha’s rich craftsmanship to a global audience while preserving the authenticity and enduring the wisdom of its weaving communities,” says Richa.
As Boito grows, Richa aspires to create even more opportunities for artisans, ensuring their skills and stories are not only preserved but also celebrated. For her, Boito isn’t just a brand—it’s a heartfelt tribute to Odisha’s timeless artistry and a meaningful step toward securing its future.
