The Arunachal Pradesh textiles and handicrafts department will organize the Arunachal Fashion Week 2026 – The Artisans’ Movement from March 14 to 21 at Naharlagun near Itanagar.
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu will grace the inaugural ceremony as chief guest.
The 2026 edition marks five years of the Artisans’ Movement in Arunachal Pradesh and 11 years since the inception of Northeast India Fashion Week, first launched in Itanagar in April 2015 at a time when the region had no structured fashion platform.
Over the past decade, what began as a pioneering initiative has evolved into a growing industry interface connecting designers, indigenous weavers, youth professionals, creative entrepreneurs, and policy stakeholders.
The opening evening, themed “Night of Opulence,” will feature curated runway presentations highlighting indigenous weaves and contemporary fashion interpretations. March 15 has been designated as Cultural Heritage Day, dedicated to designer–artisan collaborations and the celebration of traditional textiles from across Arunachal Pradesh.
From March 16 to 20, the venue will transform into a public exhibition and engagement hub featuring designer runway segments, exhibition-cum-sale counters, handloom and handicraft displays, furniture showcases, and structured buyer–artisan interactions.
The event will conclude on March 21 with the Arunachal Fashion Week Awards Night, recognizing excellence across categories including Model of the Year, Best Fashion Designer, Best Weave Designer/Weaver, and Youth Excellence Recognition.
State textiles and handicrafts minister Nyato Dukam said, “Arunachal Pradesh possesses a rich textile heritage that reflects the identity, craftsmanship, and cultural depth of our indigenous communities. The department remains committed to strengthening this sector through structured showcasing, modernization, and enhanced market access.”
