HIJA, 2 Jul: The inaugural edition of the Apatani Fashion Week & Apatani’s Next Top Model 2026 began  on a grand note at the Siilang Diting Dree Festival Ground in Hija, Lower Subansiri district, on Wednesday. Organised by the Siilang Diting Dree Festival Organising Committee, the two-day event aims to preserve Apatani heritage while creating opportunities for indigenous designers, artisans, weavers, models and creative entrepreneurs.

The initiative, presented in collaboration with Arunachal Fashion Week, Arunachal’s Next Top Model, the Fashion & Design Council of Arunachal Pradesh, Northeast India Fashion Week and Indigenous Bharat Fashion Week, seeks to promote indigenous fashion, sustainable design and cultural tourism.

Deputy Commissioner Oli Perme and SP Keni Bagra lauded the organisers for providing a professional platform to celebrate Apatani identity and empower local youth. SDDFOC General Secretary Kago Jorang said fashion is a powerful medium of storytelling that reflects a community’s identity, traditions and history, while Chairman Dani Yubbe stressed the need to preserve indigenous weaving traditions and cultural heritage for future generations.

A major highlight of the opening day was the contestant introduction round of Apatani’s Next Top Model 2026, where participants showcased Apatani-inspired looks blending tradition with contemporary fashion. The runway also featured collections by designers from Arunachal Pradesh and the Northeast. Osum Jerang Karlo received the Arunachal’s Best Fashion Designer of the Year 2026award, while Zenith Khonjuju was honoured as Arunachal’s Best Emerging Fashion Designer of the Year 2026. The evening concluded with a bridal couture showcase by renowned Meghalaya designer Rupert Wanlambok Lynrah.