Guwahati, May 2: The Northeast India International Runway Week 2026 commenced at Vivanta Guwahati with an extensive opening schedule, bringing together over 30 designers and more than 80 models in a concerted effort to elevate the region’s presence within India’s broader fashion landscape.
Designed as a strategic platform to bridge designers from the Northeast with national and global markets, the three-day event features a blend of established labels and emerging talent, alongside appearances by industry professionals and public figures. Organisers emphasised that the initiative is intended to evolve into a sustained industry platform rather than a standalone showcase.
The event is curated and directed by Dipankar Kashyap, a veteran of the regional fashion sector with over three decades of experience. According to organisers, the vision is to create long-term opportunities for designers and models while promoting a distinct fashion identity rooted in the Northeast.
The opening day began with a showcase by Zubeen’s Collection, presenting designs that fused regional aesthetics with contemporary styling. This was followed by collections from designers including Papli Gogoi, Sangeeta Chowdhury, Jeuti Das Banikya, Jasmin Pegu and Alok Agarwal, each highlighting craftsmanship alongside modern design sensibilities. The evening concluded with a finale presentation by Abigail H Zhome.
A diverse group of models, selected through auditions, took part in the shows, reflecting the organisers’ focus on discovering and nurturing new talent while maintaining professional standards. The event has also attracted wider attention, with personalities such as Asif Merchant and Rohit Khandelwal in attendance.
Organised by Divine Events under the leadership of Shasanka Das, the runway week is positioned as a key initiative to strengthen the Northeast’s visibility in the fashion industry. With two more days of showcases remaining, organisers anticipate continued engagement from designers and stakeholders as the event progresses.
