The Arunachal Fashion Week 2026 – The Artisans Movement officially commenced at Interior Park, Naharlagun, with its grand inaugural event “AFW Night of Opulence,” launching an eight-day celebration of indigenous textiles, contemporary fashion, and creative enterprise from March 14 to 21, 2026. This event, organized by the Department of Textile & Handicrafts, marks the fifth anniversary of the Artisans’ Movement, which connects traditional weavers, designers, and young creative professionals while fostering a sustainable ecosystem for indigenous fashion in Arunachal Pradesh.
The Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Shri Pema Khandu, inaugurated the Fashion Week, emphasizing the rich heritage and modern relevance of local weaving traditions. He highlighted that the state produces approximately 69 metric tonnes of silk annually, benefiting over 34,000 people across nearly 500 sericulture villages. Khandu also announced five innovative sericulture initiatives with an investment of ₹25 crore, including skill development programs for young silk weavers and an Arunachal Creative Economy Cell to support local artists and connect them with broader markets.
Women’s empowerment is a focal point of this initiative, with over 1.5 lakh women mobilized into nearly 16,000 Self Help Groups involved in weaving and handicrafts. The inaugural runway showcased collections from state designers such as Mibi Bagra, Mobang Darang, and Ralte Ellie Perme Miwu, merging traditional textiles with contemporary styles. Highlights included unique installations and a variety of fashion showcases, promoting the organized market for indigenous textiles through quality and innovation.
The event’s vision reflects years of groundwork across villages, focusing on the thriving textile traditions within communities. Describing the Artisans’ Movement’s journey, Yana Ngoba Chakpu, the movement’s founder, noted its evolution into a collaborative ecosystem. The week will feature multiple events, including designer showcases, public exhibitions, and interactive sessions, culminating in the Cultural Heritage Day and the Arunachal Fashion Week Awards Night on March 21, celebrating the achievements in fashion design, modelling, and weaving while promoting local craftsmanship on a national platform.
