The trademark khadi has not lost its relevance. Though there is no strict dress code for politicians, the white kurta pyjama has remained a favourite with them. Netas and their supporters do buy these in bulk during elections according to the market sources.

Some politicians are permanent customers of khadi clothes. The sale of khadi has picked up in the last few days, but it is not substantial. The election season and approaching summer is likely to boost sale in the coming days said a sales executive of a popular hand-woven fabric shop in Bhubaneshwar.

With the Lok Sabha and assembly elections in the state to be held on April 10 and April 17. The sale of khadi will pick up.

The current generation of politicians as well as those aspiring for party tickets still prefer and consider it as a symbol of India's freedom struggle.

To cater to the rising demand, khadi stores in the city have stocked up a variety of fabric and readymade stuff. The sale is also seen moving up by 50% in the last 15 days as Politicians are buying kurtas and shirts in bulk.

A wide-range of products, including dhoti, kurta, pyjama, angabastra, stole, scarf, jackets and Gandhi caps, are available in the market. The fabric costs Rs 70-80 to Rs 2,000 a metre. The price of a simple khadi shirt is Rs 500, but it can increase up to Rs 3,000, depending on quality of fabric and design. Linen and white cotton fabrics are also much in demand.

The material for these khadis are also procured from Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, West Bengal and Bihar.

Khadi has become synonymous with Indian politics. But the younger lot also prefers to team a khadi kurta with denim pants as the fabric is cool and comfortable.