Delhi Fashion Week 2026 brought Indian handlooms, Khadi and the cultural traditions of Northeast India into the spotlight at Bharat Mandapam, ITPO, New Delhi, with fashion presentations and cultural performances highlighting the country's diverse textile and creative heritage.

The fashion showcase was held on August 27 as part of Film Expo India. Organised by Delhi Fashion Club in collaboration with Film Expo India, in association with the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC), the event brought together fashion, traditional craftsmanship, regional culture and contemporary design. 

Handloom and Khadi at the centre

A key focus of Delhi Fashion Week 2026 was the presentation of Indian handloom and Khadi through contemporary fashion. The event sought to demonstrate how traditional textiles and indigenous craftsmanship can be incorporated into modern designs while retaining their cultural identity.

The showcase was built around the broader theme “Naari Shakti – Weaving Viksit Bharat”, connecting fashion with women's empowerment, traditional craftsmanship and India's cultural heritage. 

Northeast India gets national platform

The Northeast was a major component of the fashion programme through International Reinvent Northeast – Season 8, which brought designers, weavers, artisans, entrepreneurs and performers from the region onto a national platform.

Representations from different parts of Northeast India highlighted traditional textiles, costumes and cultural practices, offering audiences an opportunity to see regional craftsmanship alongside contemporary fashion.

Manipur showcases cultural heritage

Manipur's participation included a special cultural presentation featuring Manipuri dance. The performance brought elements of Meitei cultural heritage to the Bharat Mandapam stage and added a performing-arts dimension to the fashion showcase.

The presentation demonstrated how fashion events can also provide space for traditional performing arts and cultural storytelling. 

Meghalaya presents Ryndia silk

Meghalaya's traditional textile heritage was represented through contemporary designs using Ryndia silk. Designer Batkyntilin Mawthou from Shillong and weaver Iaineh from Ri-Bhoi presented designs showcasing the textile traditions associated with the state's Garo, Khasi and Jaintia communities.

Other Northeast textiles, including Eri silk, were also featured through garments associated with NEHHDC's Purbashree brand. 

Fashion meets traditional craftsmanship

The event brought together designers, models, fashion students, weavers, cultural performers and other professionals from across India. The combination of contemporary runway presentations and traditional textiles provided a platform for indigenous craftsmanship to reach a wider audience.

The Northeast segment particularly focused on connecting regional creative communities with the national fashion and entertainment ecosystem.

Focus on emerging talent

Delhi Fashion Week 2026 also provided opportunities for emerging models and designers. Earlier auditions in Noida had shortlisted models for the event, while the overall programme included multiple designer segments combining fashion, culture and creative expression. 

The organisers positioned the fashion week as a platform for talent development as well as the promotion of Indian textiles and cultural diversity.

A showcase of India's cultural diversity

The Bharat Mandapam event highlighted the growing intersection of fashion, heritage and cultural representation. By bringing handlooms, Khadi and Northeast Indian traditions together with contemporary design, Delhi Fashion Week 2026 presented traditional craftsmanship in a format aimed at modern audiences.

The participation of Manipur, Meghalaya and other Northeast communities added a strong regional dimension to the showcase, underlining the role fashion can play in preserving, promoting and creating wider markets for India's indigenous textiles and creative traditions.

The legal proceedings in the high-profile Raja Raghuvanshi murder case have entered a crucial phase after prime accused Sonam Raghuvanshi surrendered before the trial court in Shillong in compliance with the Supreme Court's directions. Legal experts believe that if the trial progresses within the timeline prescribed by the apex court, the case could reach its conclusion by January 2027.

Sonam surrendered before the Shillong trial court on July 29, days after the Supreme Court directed her to do so while disposing of her interim bail plea. Following her surrender, she was sent back to judicial custody.

The development has also sparked legal debate over two key questions: whether the Supreme Court's six-month deadline for completing the trial will be counted from the date of its order or from the date of Sonam's surrender, and whether she can seek bail again before the expiry of six months.

Supreme Court's Timeline Under Discussion

According to legal experts, the Supreme Court's order dated July 23 laid down two important conditions.

First, Sonam was directed to surrender before the trial court within three weeks from the date of the order. Secondly, the court observed that if the trial does not proceed at the expected pace or is not completed within six months, she would be free to file a fresh bail application.

Advocate Ashish S. Sharma said the wording of the Supreme Court's order suggests that the six-month period should be calculated from the date of the order itself rather than from the date of surrender.

If interpreted accordingly, the trial is expected to conclude by late January 2027, provided proceedings continue without unnecessary delays.

Fresh Bail Plea Still Legally Possible

Legal experts have clarified that the six-month condition is linked specifically to delays in the trial and does not completely bar Sonam from approaching the court earlier.

A fresh bail application may still be filed before the expiry of six months if new legal grounds emerge during the proceedings.

Such circumstances may include serious medical issues, significant new evidence arising during witness examination, or any other legally sustainable development that materially alters the case.

However, experts note that merely surrendering before the court ahead of the deadline would not automatically strengthen a future bail claim, though it may be viewed as cooperation with the judicial process.

Evidence Chain Will Be Crucial

The prosecution is expected to rely heavily on circumstantial, electronic and forensic evidence to establish the case against Sonam Raghuvanshi and the other accused.

Legal observers say the prosecution will have to demonstrate an unbroken chain of evidence that points exclusively towards the accused without leaving room for reasonable doubt.

The case reportedly includes CCTV footage, forensic material and other scientific evidence, all of which are expected to play a decisive role during the trial.

If these pieces of evidence are successfully proved in court and found to be interconnected, they could become the primary basis for conviction.

Why the Early Surrender Matters

Legal experts believe Sonam's decision to surrender before the expiry of the three-week deadline could carry procedural significance.

It demonstrates compliance with the Supreme Court's order and signals cooperation with the judicial process. It also allows the trial to move forward without delay, enabling procedural steps such as supply of documents, framing of charges and examination of witnesses to begin sooner.

While this does not guarantee any legal advantage regarding bail, her conduct during the proceedings may be considered by courts in future applications.

Case Enters Crucial Stage

With the accused now back in judicial custody and trial proceedings set to gather pace, the Raja Raghuvanshi murder case has entered its most significant phase.

The coming months will focus on the examination of witnesses, presentation of scientific evidence and arguments from both sides. If the trial proceeds within the timeframe envisaged by the Supreme Court, the case may witness its final judgment in early 2027.

 Sonam Raghuvanshi, the prime accused in the murder of Indore-based transport businessman Raja Raghuvanshi, surrendered before a court in Shillong on Wednesday and was subsequently sent to judicial custody, complying with the Supreme Court's direction that had cancelled her bail earlier this month.

Sonam appeared before the Shillong court before the expiry of the three-week deadline granted by the apex court. The Supreme Court had, on July 23, directed her to surrender before the trial court after setting aside the bail granted by the Meghalaya High Court.

Supreme Court Cancelled Bail

A bench of the Supreme Court had observed that the High Court erred in granting bail solely on alleged procedural lapses relating to the communication of arrest grounds.

The court clarified that there is a legal distinction between not informing an accused of the grounds of arrest at all and providing incomplete or inadequate information. It held that a technical deficiency alone could not justify granting bail in a serious criminal case.

The bench had further directed that the murder trial be completed within six months. It also stated that Sonam would be free to seek fresh bail if the trial is not concluded within the stipulated period.

Court Concerned About Trial

While cancelling the bail, the Supreme Court noted that Sonam had acknowledged before the magistrate that she had received the grounds of arrest and related documents.

The bench also observed that the merits of her earlier bail applications had already been examined and rejected. Since the trial had commenced, allowing the accused to remain out on bail at this stage could potentially affect the judicial process.

The case was argued on behalf of the Meghalaya government by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta.

Family Welcomes Surrender

Following Sonam's surrender, Raja Raghuvanshi's brother Vipin Raghuvanshi welcomed the development and thanked the Meghalaya government for its efforts in the investigation.

He expressed hope that the legal proceedings would now move forward and justice would be delivered in the case.

Background of the Case

The Raja Raghuvanshi murder case drew nationwide attention after the Indore-based businessman was allegedly murdered during a trip to Meghalaya. Sonam Raghuvanshi was identified as the principal accused during the investigation and has remained at the centre of the high-profile case.

The Supreme Court's latest order has ensured that the accused returns to judicial custody while the trial proceeds under court supervision.

With Sonam now lodged in jail, the focus shifts to the ongoing trial, which the apex court has directed to be completed within six months to ensure an expeditious conclusion.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday deferred the hearing on the Meghalaya government's plea challenging the bail granted to Sonam Raghuvanshi, the prime accused in the high-profile Raja Raghuvanshi murder case. The matter will now be heard on July 21.

A bench comprising Justice Manoj Misra and Justice S. Chandrasekhar directed the Meghalaya government to produce a copy of the grounds of arrest that were served on Sonam at the time of her arrest.

The bail dispute revolves around whether the investigating agency complied with the legal requirement of furnishing the accused with the grounds of arrest. The trial court had granted bail to Sonam after observing that the mandatory arrest grounds were not properly supplied. The Meghalaya High Court later upheld that decision.

State Challenges Bail Order

The Meghalaya government has argued before the Supreme Court that Sonam was informed about the grounds of her arrest and that the controversy arose solely because of a typographical error in the arrest documents.

According to the state, the document mistakenly mentioned Section 403(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) instead of Section 103(1), which deals with murder. The government has maintained that the incorrect section number was a clerical mistake and did not prejudice the accused or invalidate the arrest procedure.

The Supreme Court is now expected to examine whether the procedural requirements under law were substantially complied with despite the drafting error.

Earlier Refusal to Stay Bail

In an earlier hearing, the apex court had declined to immediately suspend Sonam's bail, even while expressing reservations about the manner in which the High Court dealt with the issue.

A bench of Justice M.M. Sundresh and Justice Sheel Nagu had observed that, at first glance, the case did not appear to be one where the grounds of arrest had been completely withheld from the accused.

However, the court chose not to grant interim relief because Sonam had already been released on bail, had spent time in judicial custody, and sought time to file her response to the Meghalaya government's petition.

Typographical Error at Centre of Dispute

During the previous proceedings, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Meghalaya government, submitted that the mention of the wrong statutory provision was merely a typographical error.

He argued that the magistrate had explained the grounds of arrest while granting transit remand and that records supporting the procedure were available. He also contended that Sonam's earlier bail applications on merits had been rejected, and relief was subsequently granted only on the technical issue of the incorrect section number.

The Supreme Court had questioned whether a clerical mistake in citing the legal provision alone could justify granting bail, particularly when the accused had allegedly been informed about the allegations.

Background of the Murder Case

The case stems from the murder of Raja Raghuvanshi, a transport businessman from Indore, who married Sonam Raghuvanshi on May 11, 2025.

Soon after their wedding, the couple travelled to Meghalaya for their honeymoon. They went missing on May 23, triggering a large-scale search operation.

On June 3, 2025, Raja's body was recovered from a deep gorge in Meghalaya. The investigation later uncovered an alleged conspiracy behind the murder, leading to the arrest of several accused, including Sonam, who investigators identified as the alleged principal conspirator.

She was arrested and remained in custody before securing bail on procedural grounds.

Meanwhile, Raja Raghuvanshi's family has repeatedly demanded a CBI investigation, alleging that the case involves multiple states and requires an independent probe. Sonam has denied allegations that she attempted to flee the country after her release and has maintained that she continues to cooperate with the investigation.

The Supreme Court's hearing on July 21 is expected to determine whether the bail granted on procedural grounds can withstand judicial scrutiny.

The fourth edition of the Meghalaya Pineapple Fest 2026 began at Dilli Haat in New Delhi on July 10, bringing together farmers, entrepreneurs, policymakers and visitors to celebrate one of Meghalaya's most celebrated agricultural products. The three-day festival, which continues until July 12, aims to promote the state's premium pineapples, strengthen market linkages and highlight the rich cultural heritage of Meghalaya.

The inaugural programme was attended by Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) and Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia as the Chief Guest, while Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma participated as the Guest of Honour.

Organised by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, Government of Meghalaya, the festival provides a platform for pineapple growers and agri-entrepreneurs to directly connect with consumers, retailers and industry stakeholders.

Focus on Farmers

The inaugural programme began with a tour of festival stalls where dignitaries interacted with farmers and entrepreneurs showcasing Meghalaya's agricultural products. A welcome session and screening of a promotional film on Meghalaya Pineapple highlighted the state's journey in developing pineapple cultivation into a major horticultural success.

A pineapple farmer also addressed the gathering, sharing experiences of cultivation, entrepreneurship and the growing opportunities available to producers through improved market access and branding initiatives.

Partnerships for Growth

One of the major highlights of the inaugural ceremony was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Flipkart and NEMIL, aimed at strengthening marketing opportunities for farmers and expanding the reach of Meghalaya's agricultural produce through digital commerce.

A brochure documenting the four editions of the Meghalaya Pineapple Festival was also released during the event, showcasing the festival's evolution and contribution to promoting the state's horticulture sector.

Celebrating Meghalaya's Produce

The festival is designed to showcase the quality and uniqueness of Meghalaya's pineapples while encouraging value addition, branding and better market connectivity for local farmers. Visitors can explore fresh pineapples, processed food products, traditional cuisine and cultural displays representing the state's diverse heritage.

The event also serves as a networking platform where farmers, startups, government agencies and private sector representatives discuss opportunities in agriculture, food processing and agribusiness.

Three-Day Festival

Running from July 10 to July 12 between 11:00 AM and 9:00 PM at Dilli Haat, the festival features product exhibitions, interactive sessions, cultural performances and business engagements aimed at promoting Meghalaya as a leading producer of high-quality pineapples.

Officials said the initiative supports the government's broader objective of improving farmers' incomes by creating stronger market linkages and increasing consumer awareness about the state's premium horticultural products.

The Meghalaya Pineapple Fest has emerged as one of the state's flagship promotional events, helping connect producers with buyers while celebrating the region's agricultural excellence and cultural identity.

The Supreme Court of India on Friday stayed the bail granted to Sonam Raghuvanshi, the prime accused in the murder of her husband, Raja Raghuvanshi, providing temporary relief to the Meghalaya government, which had challenged the bail order before the apex court.

The matter came up for hearing after the Meghalaya government moved the Supreme Court seeking cancellation of the bail granted to Sonam. The state argued that the relief was granted because of a typographical error in the police documents and sought immediate intervention to prevent her release while the case is under trial.

The case relates to the alleged murder of Indore businessman Raja Raghuvanshi during the couple's honeymoon in Meghalaya in May 2025. Investigators have alleged that Sonam Raghuvanshi was the key conspirator in the murder and that the crime was carried out with the help of hired assailants. The allegations are currently being examined during the trial, and the accused has denied wrongdoing.

Earlier this week, the Meghalaya High Court had upheld a Shillong court's order granting bail to Sonam Raghuvanshi after dismissing the state's appeal. The High Court had observed that the lower court's order did not warrant interference, although a detailed judgment is awaited.

Following the High Court's decision, the Meghalaya government promptly approached the Supreme Court, maintaining that the bail order stemmed from an error in the police records. According to the state, a typographical mistake in mentioning the relevant legal provision played a role in the grant of bail, and the issue required urgent correction.

During Friday's proceedings, the Supreme Court stayed the operation of the bail order, meaning Sonam Raghuvanshi will continue to remain in custody until further directions from the court. The stay does not amount to a final decision on the merits of the bail dispute, and the matter will continue to be heard by the apex court.

The Raja Raghuvanshi murder case has attracted nationwide attention since the businessman from Indore was found dead in Meghalaya after the couple went missing during their honeymoon. The investigation led to the arrest of Sonam Raghuvanshi and other accused, with the Meghalaya Police filing a detailed chargesheet in the case.

The Supreme Court's interim order marks the latest legal development in the high-profile case. Further proceedings are expected as the court considers the Meghalaya government's plea seeking cancellation of the bail granted to the main accused.