Kai Fashion Weekend 2026, a four-day fashion showcase aimed at promoting Manipur’s fashion industry as a business-driven enterprise, commenced today at the City Convention Centre, Palace Compound, Imphal.
The event was inaugurated by Yumnam Joybala, wife of Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh. Curated by renowned Manipuri fashion designer Sailex Ngairangbam, the Autumn/Winter 2026 edition will feature a series of runway presentations by leading and emerging designers from the State.
The opening day showcased Sailex Ngairangbam’s latest Autumn/Winter collection, presented by 49 models, including 16 male and 33 female participants.
Speaking on the occasion, Sailex said fashion shows in Manipur have traditionally been viewed largely as cultural or entertainment events. He said the objective of Kai Fashion Weekend is to change that perception by positioning fashion as a commercially viable industry and creating market opportunities for local designers.
He also informed that the collections unveiled during the event are intended for commercial distribution through national retail outlets, enabling local designs to reach wider markets across the country.
The second day of the fashion weekend will feature collections by Next Gen Designers, Amalgamate Beyond Roots, Karan Thokchom and Leiren Jewellers.
Director of Handloom and Textiles E. Jeeten attended the inaugural function as the chief guest.