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 BaruahSnigdha 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.