By Bizodisha Bureau, Bhubaneswar, October 22, 2018: The globally renowned US-based fashion designer of Odia origin, Bibhu Mohapatra is all set to enthrall audience in the forthcoming Make in Odisha Conclave (MIO) on November 11-15, 2018.

In line with “I am Odisha”, the theme of the Conclave which celebrates successes of Odias worldwide, Bibhu will deliver a TED-style talk on the creative economy on November 13 next followed by a fashion show curated. It shall be organized by the Government of Odisha in association with National Institute of Fashion Technology and other stakeholders.

Mohapatra’s talk will veer around his personal journey from Rourkela to New York and his experience of starting a label and making a leading fashion brand out of it in the US.

He would also talk about the megatrends in the creative economy of today in addition to throwing some light on Odisha’s creative economy. The talk will be followed by a fashion show wherein Odisha-based handloom work shall also be showcased in draping of saris and local textile pieces, officials on Monday said.

Mohapatra, founder and CEO, BIBHU, is credited with dressing international celebrities including Frieda Pinto, Mary J. Blige, Tina Fey, Celine Dion, Kendall Jenner, Jennifer Lopez, Glenn Close, Lupita Nyong’o, Emily Blunt and Taraji P. Henson. He also dressed Michelle Obama several times including dressing her during the Presidential state visit to India where she was greeted by the Prime Minister of India.

“I am honoured to be invited by the Government of Odisha to be part of the Make in Odisha Conclave 2018. Having lived the first 23 years of my life here before moving to the US, Odisha has always been close to my heart. I look forward to sharing my experiences with the audience at MIO and help showcase Odisha’s creative potential to the world,” Mohapatra remarked.

Sanjeev Chopra, state principal secretary, industries said, “We are elated to have Bibhu Mohapatra amongst us to share his experiences and inspire more such success stories from Odisha.”