Foreign models walk the ramp in Manipur

Imphal, May 3 (ANI): The northeast is rapidly making its presence felt on the fashion circuit. Recently, a fashion show "elegance of the indigenous" was organised in Imphal where foreign models walked the ramp in traditional attires.

These models from different parts of the world were on their maiden visit to Manipur to participate in a one of its kind fashion show "Elegance of the Indigenous".

Eleven models from Russia, Brazil, Moldova and Ukraine, and six from Manipur sashayed down the ramp at the Bheigyachandra Open Air Theatre, showcasing the collection of four eminent designers of the state.

The show was organised by "Blue Wings" under the aegis of Manipur Development Society and Manipur Skill Development society with support from the Manipur tourism department.

"The objective of the show is the promotion of traditional Manipuri attire. Youngsters now-a-days are forgetting about the traditions. We thought that they should respect and understand the products our forefathers have given to us," said Nishikanta, a choreographer.

The fashion extravaganza aimed at showcasing traditional Manipuri attire and attracting the attention of national and foreign buyers. The designers put forward a fusion collection by blending traditional designs with contemporary styles.

The ethnic Manipuri fabric patterns, collected from different Meitei and tribal villages across the state, were also showcased at the event. Each community in Manipur has its distinct attire and ethnic patterns.

"Not only Manipur, but the whole of Northeast ...Whatever we have is very beautiful. But we are not able to globally advertise it. This will be the kind of platform where these things will come up," said Roslyn Khongsai, fashion designer.

"It was nice. We got to travel to some places and see what happens here, how is the culture, how are the people," added Patricia, a model from Brazil.

This is the first time after the Protected Area Permit was withdrawn in 2011 that foreign models have ventured into Manipur. Events like this, while giving the designers a platform to showcase traditional designs, also help in drawing attention towards the rich culture of the region. (ANI)