Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Itanagar: More than 100 aspiring models recently completed the final auditions for Apatani's Next Top Model 2026. The event, held in Arunachal Pradesh, attracted 104 contestants through a mix of physical and online sessions, with organizers expecting to shortlist 30 finalists for the upcoming competition.
The model hunt is a central component of Apatani Fashion Week 2026, which runs concurrently with the Dree Festival. The initiative is a collaboration between the Siilang Ditting Dree Festival Celebration Committee and the Fashion and Design Council of Arunachal Pradesh. Organizers emphasized that the project serves as more than just a runway show. They stated the programme is intended to serve as a platform for market access, skill development and enterprise growth rather than functioning solely as a fashion event.
By promoting indigenous textiles and handicrafts, the event aims to provide better exposure for local artisans, weavers, and entrepreneurs. The fashion week is scheduled for July 1 and 2, while a larger exhibition showcasing traditional knowledge and community products will remain open through July 6.
The event will feature designs from Meghalaya-based creator Rupert Wanlambok Lynrah. He will join Angie Ngoba Namchoom and Zenit Khunjuju on the jury panel. Beyond the immediate fashion showcase, organizers plan to provide ongoing mentorship and capacity-building workshops to support promising local talent. Select collections will also earn spots at the Arunachal Fashion Week to help brands reach national and international markets.
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