Itanagar, Jul 3: Indigenous fashion, cultural pride and emerging modelling talent took centre stage as the grand finale of Apatani Fashion Week and Apatani’s Next Top Model 2026 concluded at Hija village in Lower Subansiri district on Thursday.
Organised under the banner of Apatani Fashion Week, the event celebrated the rich heritage of the Apatani community through fashion, music and cultural performances, while providing a platform for indigenous designers, weavers, artisans and aspiring models.
The programme began with a welcome address by the vice chairman of the Sillang Diting Dree Festival Celebration Committee (SDDFCC), followed by runway presentations by designers Hibu Ollo, Leegang Ozeen and Taru Monya. Their collections showcased a blend of traditional Apatani attire and contemporary fashion, highlighting the versatility and evolving appeal of indigenous textiles.
The audience also witnessed vibrant performances by the Dani Haj Puna Clan, the SDDFC Daminda Dance Committee and the Diirey Nyimung Dance Group. Renowned singer Bullo Tajung added to the festive atmosphere with a musical performance, while PH Construction Managing Director and event sponsor Tasso Hinda addressed the gathering.
The grand finale segment, themed "Colors of Apatani," featured finalists walking the runway in both traditional Apatani attire and contemporary fusion ensembles, reflecting the harmonious balance between cultural preservation and modern fashion.
One of the defining moments of the evening was the crowning ceremony, where winners and runners-up received their titles while dressed in traditional Apatani attire instead of conventional western evening wear. The symbolic gesture underscored the event's commitment to celebrating indigenous identity and recognising the titleholders as ambassadors of Apatani culture and heritage.
In the female category, Tadu Bini of Mudang Tage village was crowned Apatani's Next Top Model 2026, while Hano Sumpi of Bamin village and Hage Konya of Hari village were declared first and second runners-up, respectively.
In the male category, Nani Hao of Bulla village won the title, followed by Mihin Lento of Tajang village as first runner-up and Tallo Doding of Hong village as second runner-up.
The competition also recognised outstanding contestants with special awards. Tapi Kanya won Best Runway Walk, Hibu Omang received Best Presence, Tage Chado was named Mr. Popular, Kago Kaku won Miss Popular, Hiinyo Rilung was honoured as Emerging Model Talent, Pura Kalyang received Best Contemporary Styling, Dani Nuri won Best Photogenic, and Koj Nampi was recognised for Best Traditional Interpretation.
The winners were presented with trophies, cash prizes, certificates, sashes and mementoes by distinguished guests and fashion professionals.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by SDDFCC general secretary and CEO of Apatani Fashion Week and Apatani's Next Top Model, Kago Jorang, who acknowledged the contributions of designers, judges, sponsors, cultural groups, volunteers, media partners and the people of the Apatani Valley.