New Delhi, October 2026: Ladakh’s renowned Pashmina, traditional shawls, handwoven textiles, intricate embroidery and indigenous handicrafts are attracting attention at Lakmé Fashion Week, being held from October 13 to 18, 2026, at The Taj, New Delhi. A dedicated stall has been established to showcase the region’s distinctive craftsmanship and rich cultural heritage on a prominent national platform.

Ladakh’s Pashmina tradition reflects the dedication and generations of knowledge preserved by the Changthang community. The region’s pastoral herders rear Changra goats, whose fine undercoat produces the exceptionally soft Pashmina fibre. Despite the harsh climatic conditions of the high-altitude Changthang plateau, these communities have sustained their traditional practices, making Pashmina an integral part of Ladakh’s cultural identity and livelihood.

The exhibition features a diverse collection of exquisite Pashmina shawls, handwoven textiles, traditional embroidery and locally produced handicrafts. These creations highlight the skills and creativity of Ladakh’s artisans, weavers, spinners and women entrepreneurs. The display also traces the journey of Pashmina from the high-altitude pastures to finished products that blend traditional techniques with contemporary design.

A major highlight of the event is scheduled for Sunday, October 18, when designers from Ladakh will showcase their collections on the fashion runway. The presentation will feature distinctive Pashmina creations, traditional embroidery and modern interpretations of the region’s indigenous textiles, bringing Ladakh’s cultural identity and craftsmanship to a wider audience.

The participation also recognises the contribution of the people who sustain these traditional industries, including Changthang herders, local artisans, skilled craftspeople and women-led Self-Help Groups. By connecting local producers with the wider fashion industry, the initiative aims to strengthen market access, promote entrepreneurship and generate sustainable livelihood opportunities across Ladakh.

The initiative reflects the efforts of the Union Territory Administration, the Department of Industries and Commerce, and the implementation of the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Scheme to strengthen the handicrafts and handloom sector. The programme seeks to support artisans and Self-Help Groups, improve traditional skills, encourage local enterprises and increase the visibility of Ladakh-made products in wider markets.

From the high-altitude pastures of Changthang to the fashion runway in New Delhi, Ladakh’s Pashmina represents the region’s unique landscape, cultural heritage and the dedication of its people. The showcase provides an opportunity to preserve traditional craftsmanship while creating new avenues for innovation, entrepreneurship and economic growth.