The Royal School of Fashion Design and Technology of The Assam Royal Global University (RGU) organised “Rhythm of the Looms” – a fashion design, handloom and textiles conclave here on Friday celebrating the remarkable contributions of women across Northeast India.
Speakers at the conclave highlighted the vital role played by women of the region in preserving indigenous textile traditions while also innovating within the contemporary fashion industry.
One of the key highlights of the conclave was a panel discussion featuring leading women designers from across the Northeast, including Richana Khumanthem from Manipur, Yana Ngoba Chakpu from Arunachal Pradesh, Asenla Jamir from Nagaland, Chimi Ongmu Bhutia from Sikkim and Iaishah Rymbai from Meghalaya.
The discussion focused on the challenges and opportunities for designers working with indigenous textiles and the importance of empowering local artisans.
Speaking in this context, Akriti Mazumdar, assistant professor at RGU said, “This is a novel initiative taken for the first time in the entire Northeast region by a university. Here we are celebrating women’s contribution in Fashion, handlooms and textile of Northeast India while marking the International Women’s Day 2026.”
“By bringing together diverse voices, we hope to inspire meaningful dialogue and new pathways for the future of fashion in the Northeast,’ Mazumdar said.
The conclave aims to create a dialogue between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary fashion while promoting sustainability, cultural preservation and women-led entrepreneurship in the region’s fashion ecosystem.
The event also featured live demonstrations highlighting traditional craftsmanship and sustainable techniques. These included a vegetable dyeing workshop by Econic led by designer Sanghamitra Kalita, a Kokal Xhaal weaving demonstration by the weavers of Dharikati from Saneki Weaves, and a Maku Xhaal weaving demonstration by Thamakitila Bowa Kata Samabay Samity Ltd.
Women-led brands such as Khumanthem, Handloom Hues, Hathai, Rini, Saneki Weaves and Thamakitila Bowa Kata Samabay Samity Ltd. also showcased their work at the conclave.
The conclave concluded with a runway showcase featuring innovative collections developed by the department focusing on handloom, textiles and sustainability, celebrating fashion rooted in tradition.
