Guwahati: Tadu Bini and Nani Hao were crowned the female and male winners of Apatani’s Next Top Model 2026 during the grand finale of the event held at Hija Village in Arunachal Pradesh‘s Lower Subansiri district.
Tadu Bini hails from Mudang Tage village and Nani Hao is from Bulla Village.
In the female category, Hano Sumpi of Bamin Village finished as the first runner-up, while Hage Konya of Hari Village secured the second runner-up position. In the male category, Mihin Lento of Tajang Village was named first runner-up and Tallo Doding of Hong Village was declared second runner-up.
The grand finale, organised under the banner of Apatani Fashion Week, celebrated the Apatani community’s rich cultural heritage, indigenous fashion and emerging modelling talent.
A defining feature of this year’s event was the crowning ceremony, where the winners and runners-up were honoured while dressed in traditional Apatani attire instead of conventional western or evening wear. Organisers said the symbolic presentation recognised the titleholders as ambassadors of Apatani heritage and highlighted indigenous identity, authenticity and cultural pride.
The evening began with a welcome address by the Vice Chairman of the Sillang Diting Dree Festival Celebration Committee (SDDFCC), followed by runway presentations by designers Hibu Ollo, Leegang Ozeen and Taru Monya, who showcased collections blending traditional Apatani aesthetics with contemporary fashion.
The grand finale presentation, themed “Colors of Apatani,” featured finalists in both traditional attire and modern fusion ensembles, reflecting the evolution of indigenous fashion while retaining the essence of Apatani identity.
The programme also featured cultural performances by the Dani Haj Puna Clan, the SDDFC Daminda Dance Committee and the Diirey Nyimung Dance Group. Renowned singer Bullo Tajung entertained the audience with a musical performance, while PH Construction Managing Director and sponsor Tasso Hinda delivered a special address.
Several subtitle awards were also presented during the event. Tapi Kanya won Best Runway Walk, Hibu Omang was named Best Presence, Tage Chado received the Mr. Popular award, Kago Kaku was declared Miss Popular, Hiinyo Rilung won Emerging Model Talent, Pura Kalyang received Best Contemporary Styling, Dani Nuri was adjudged Best Photogenic, and Koj Nampi won Best Traditional Interpretation.
The winners were presented with trophies, cash prizes, certificates, sashes and mementoes by distinguished guests, fashion professionals and dignitaries.