A contingent of 54 members from India’s Northeast recently journeyed to Istanbul, Turkey, bringing with them a kaleidoscope of colours, textures, and traditions. This diverse group, comprising designers, models, folk artists, entrepreneurs, and officials, converged on the historic city to showcase the rich cultural heritage of their homeland at the celebrating North East India Festival. The event, now in its 19th edition, was organised by the North East Institute of Fashion Technology (NEIFT) under the leadership of CEO Vikram Rai Medhi.
Supported by the Consulate General of India in Istanbul and co-sponsored by the Department of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya, the festival aimed to promote the North East's tourism, textiles, and handicrafts on an international stage. As the curtains rose in early September, the audience was treated to a spectacular fusion of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design. Prominent designers from across the region, including Daniel Syiem and Moryca Marak from Meghalaya, Robert Naorem from Manipur, Bambi Kevichusa from Nagaland, Escape from Mizoram, and Huangpi Gogoi from Assam, presented collections that spoke volumes about their cultural heritage.
Among the standout presentations was ‘The Ryndia Chronicles’ by Daniel Syiem. Syiem’s collection paid homage to the state’s indigenous Ryndia fabric, a material he has worked with for over a decade. Speaking to India Today NE, Syiem explained, “I feel a strong, almost spiritual co.