Manipur’s traditional handloom heritage received international exposure through the fashion presentation of Lily Lairenlakpam, founder of Shirui Lily Closet, at an international fashion festival in Russia held from October 19 to 23, 2026.
Lily presented a collection titled “Threads of Manipur – A Legacy of Heritage and Elegance”, showcasing traditional Manipuri handlooms through contemporary fashion designs.
Inspired by Manipur’s natural beauty, the collection featured floral headpieces modelled on the Shirui Lily, highlighting the relationship between fashion, nature and sustainability. The presentation also featured images of Kangla Fort and the Shirui Lily, while a Manipur Tourism video introduced international audiences to the state’s cultural heritage.
The presentation was organised in collaboration with Harshit Dhingaun, Chairman of Delhi Fashion Club, providing an opportunity to showcase Manipur’s indigenous textiles and craftsmanship before an international audience.
The initiative is expected to help create greater awareness of Manipuri handlooms, explore potential international markets and highlight the importance of preserving traditional weaving practices.
The presentation also demonstrated how contemporary fashion can provide wider visibility to regional textile traditions while creating opportunities for designers and traditional weaving communities.