Indian couturier Manish Malhotra brought Assamese heritage into the global fashion conversation at the Cannes Film Festival 2026 as mother-daughter duo Urmimala Baruah and Snigdha Baruah made a striking appearance in custom couture inspired by the cultural identity of Northeast India.
Designed by Malhotra, the couture reinterpreted Assamese tradition through a modern global lens. Urmimala said, “This appearance is not just about fashion. It is about visibility. For a long time, the Northeast has not always been part of the mainstream narrative, and moments like this help bring that identity forward in a global space like Cannes.” Snigdha added, “We are not trying to fit into a larger narrative, we are trying to ensure our own story is seen. Assam has its own identity, and it deserves equal space on global platforms like this.”
Urmimala Baruah
Snigdha appeared in a blush silk ensemble detailed with hand-strung pearls and a statement ruby-and-diamond necklace, while Urmimala wore a midnight-violet silhouette highlighted with statement jewellery.
