Okra is a multifunctional crop mainly used in culinary preparations; however, it has untapped potential as a functional food and in industrial applications. Its underutilised polysaccharides can be used gainfully in pharmaceuticals, food, and packaging industries, plasma replacement, and water treatment plants. Its fibres can be utilised successfully in the paper and textile industries, and its seeds in the oil and biodiesel industries. Its low productivity can be improved effectively by exploring its inbred vigour and modifying its plant architecture. Its yield can be stabilised by incorporating multi-stress resistance in okra varieties. Cytoplasmic-genic male sterility is recommended for efficient hybrid seed production by the seed industry. The adaptation of an okra networking consortium is suggested to manage its multiple functions at national and international levels.