Bhubaneswar, Jan. 14: Kashmiri handlooms are in the city to keep you warm this winter.

The exquisite garments are being sold at the ongoing Special Handloom Expo, organised by Odisha Handloom Weavers Co-op Society Ltd, on the proposed BDA park site at Pokhariput.

From jackets and salwar-suits to saris and shawls, the kiosks display an array of garments with beautiful Kashmiri designs such as Kashida embroidery.

“People here are appreciating our work. Phirans (woollen kurtas) are quite in demand. Embroidered robes are also a hit,” said Sheikh Abid, a seller with a collection of hand-made Kashida items. The embroidery draws inspiration from natural elements such as flowers, birds, creepers, fruits and plants.

Bathrobes with Aari designs are also finding buyers in large numbers. “I am an avid traveller. Winter is that time of the year when I go footloose. The Kashimiri clothes would definitely warm me up like Kangri (a pot filled with hot embers used by Kashmiris) does,” said Ritisna, a visitor who bought a bathrobe with Samovar pattern. Samovar is the traditional pot that the Kashmiris use and the design involves extensive impressions of flowers and twigs.

Though genuine Pashmina and semi-Pashmina shawls are quite expensive, they are one of the major items in demand. “We have pure Pashmina shawls that cost Rs 25,000 each. We have sold an ash-coloured one at that price here. Semi-Pashmina shawls cost between Rs 13,000 and Rs 15,000,” says Abrar, a seller, who is happy with his income at the expo.

Salwar-suits and kurtas with Kashir-jaal (embroidery on the neckline and sleeves) and Naala-jaal designs (embroidery on the neckline and upper torso) are a craze among college-goers and professionals. The price starts from Rs 650 per piece.

Nehru Jackets with Doori stitch are also attracting customers.

Sponsored by the development commissioner (handlooms), Union ministry of textiles, the exhibition will continue till January 25.