The Grand Finale of Apatani Fashion Week and Apatani’s Next Top Model 2026 concluded on a spectacular note recently at Hija in Lower Subansiri, celebrating the rich cultural heritage, indigenous fashion and emerging modelling talent of the Apatani community.
The evening commenced with a welcome address by the Vice Chairman of the Sillang Diting Dree Festival Celebration Committee (SDDFCC), followed by a series of impressive runway presentations by designers Hibu Ollo, Leegang Ozeen and Taru Monya, each presenting collections that beautifully blended Apatani traditions with contemporary fashion.
The grand finale presentation, themed “Colours of Apatani,” showcased the finalists in their own traditional attire as well as contemporary fusion ensembles, reflecting the evolution of indigenous fashion while preserving the essence of Apatani identity.
One of the most remarkable and unique highlights of Apatani’s Next Top Model 2026 was the crowning ceremony itself. Unlike conventional modelling competitions where winners are crowned in western or evening attire, the winners and runners-up were honoured while dressed in their own traditional Apatani attire. This symbolic presentation celebrated indigenous identity, authenticity and cultural pride.
The winners were:
- Best Runway Walk: Tapi Kanya
- Best Presence: Hibu Omang
- Mr. Popular: Tage Chado
- Miss Popular: Kago Kaku
- Emerging Model Talent: Hiinyo Rilung
- Best Contemporary Styling: Pura Kalyang
- Best Photogenic: Dani Nuri
- Best Traditional Interpretation: Koj Nampi
Female Category
- Winner: Tadu Bini – Mudang Tage Village
- First Runner-Up: Hano Sumpi – Bamin Village
- Second Runner-Up: Hage Konya – Hari Village
Male Category
- Winner: Nani Hao – Bulla Village
- First Runner-Up: Mihin Lento – Tajang Village
- Second Runner-Up: Tallo Doding – Hong Village
