ITANAGAR, Mar 22: Arunachal Fashion Week 2026 – The Artisans’ Movement concluded on a high note at Interior Park, Naharlagun on Friday, marking the culmination of an eight-day celebration of indigenous textiles, creativity and cultural identity.
The grand finale, observed as Cultural Heritage Day and Awards Night, was graced by Textile & Handicrafts Minister Nyato Dukam as the chief guest and MLA Nabam Vivek as the guest of honour.
Bringing together designers, weavers, artisans, models and industry stakeholders, the event marked five years of the Artisans’ Movement, which has evolved into a structured platform linking traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design and market opportunities.
Throughout the week, the fashion showcase featured runway shows, live performances and a multi-floor exhibition displaying handloom collections, designer wear, jewellery, accessories, home décor and artisan crafts, creating a vibrant interface between creators and consumers.
The awards segment recognised excellence across categories. Millo Antu and Tapang Taba were crowned Arunachal’s Next Top Model (Miss and Mr 2026), while Osum Jerang Karlo won Arunachal’s Next Top Fashion Designer 2026. Jiyi Ete was named Top Weaver, Zenith Khonjuju Emerging Fashion Designer, and Sampi Miri Showstopper of the Year. Other awardees included Techi Tana Tara (Most Popular Model), Anna Taying Kamdak (Most Fashionable Guest) and Millo Kari Kago (Outstanding Buyer).
Addressing the gathering, Minister Nyato Dukam said the platform represents more than a fashion event, describing it as a movement aimed at preserving culture, empowering youth and positioning Arunachal Pradesh as a strong voice in India’s indigenous and sustainable fashion ecosystem. He highlighted government efforts to strengthen market linkages, promote traditional textiles and expand opportunities for young professionals.
MLA Nabam Vivek praised the creativity and quality of local designers, stating that their work reflects global standards and a strong cultural identity.
Director of Textile & Handicrafts Dorjee Phuntso lauded the vision behind the initiative and credited its founder Yana Ngoba Chakpu for developing a platform that connects designers, weavers and creative professionals, supported by ongoing government efforts in skill development and capacity building.
Founder and CEO Yana Ngoba Chakpu said the initiative will now expand into Northeast India Fashion Week, aiming to take the region’s textiles and cultural narratives to national and global platforms while building a connected ecosystem for artisans and designers.
Chief Operating Officer Meena Noshi noted that the event represents over a year of sustained effort and reaffirmed the vision of establishing Arunachal Pradesh as a leading indigenous fashion hub.
The event also highlighted the state’s growing textile economy. Arunachal Pradesh produces nearly 69 metric tonnes of Eri, Muga and Mulberry silk annually, supporting over 34,000 livelihoods across nearly 500 villages. A proposed Rs 25 crore push towards sericulture and youth-focused skill development initiatives is expected to further strengthen the sector.
With its successful conclusion, Arunachal Fashion Week 2026 reinforces the state’s emerging position at the intersection of culture, creativity and commerce, where indigenous textiles are preserved, promoted and integrated into India’s evolving creative economy.