Rhythm of the Looms: RGU hosts mega Fashion, Handloom & Textiles Conclave celebrating women artisans and designers of NE

GUWAHATI, March 6, 2026: The Royal School of Fashion Design & Technology of The Assam Royal Global University (RGU) has organised “Rhythm of the Looms” –a Fashion Design, Handloom & Textiles Conclave here today celebrating the remarkable contributions of women across Northeast India. The Conclave was graced by Hara Kanta Baro, Regional Director, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India; Patricia Mukhim, Padma Shri awardee and Editor of The Shillong Times; Jesmina Zeliang, textile revivalist and founder of Heirloom Naga, apart from many others.

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, Ms Akriti Mazumdar, Assistant Professor at RGU said, “This is a novel initiative taken for the first time in the entire North East region by a university. Here we are celebrating women’s contribution in Fashion, handlooms & 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.” 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 speakers in 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.

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.