Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Imphal: Manipur took the spotlight at the Miss Universe India 2026 pageant in Jaipur on August 20. Designer Robert Naorem outfitted contestant Thadoi in a costume honoring the state's deep ties to sagol kangjei, the local term for polo. The outfit highlights regional craftsmanship and textile history. It relies on sarong-inspired drapes and intricate tribal motifs.
Naorem incorporated fabrics from the Tangkhul and Kabui communities to represent the state's diversity. The gear frames polo as a symbol of grace, skill, and strategy. Naorem serves as the state director and holds the license for the local pageant. He sees the project as a way to unify the region on a national stage.
"The ensemble was designed to represent Manipur as a whole, bringing together its diverse communities, craftsmanship and heritage on a national platform," Naorem said. India has crowned three winners in the Miss Universe competition: Sushmita Sen, Lara Dutta, and Harnaaz Sandhu. Each has previously visited the state to wear Naorem's designs. These appearances have boosted the profile of local fashion on the global circuit.
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