Archive · 22 Aug 2026
Miss Universe India 2026 Costume Celebrates Manipur’s Sporting Heritage
A special costume at Miss Universe India 2026 celebrated the state of Manipur.
It was shown during the pageant in Jaipur on August 20.
Designer Robert Naorem created the outfit.
The design was inspired by polo, which is called kangjei in Manipur.
It also used traditional patterns and handmade fabrics.
Some fabrics came from the Tangkhul and Kabui communities.
The costume was meant to show Manipur’s connection to sports and its cultural traditions.
Thadoi Yumnam wore the costume while representing Manipur.
A Miss Universe India 2026 costume showcased Manipur’s sporting and cultural heritage in Jaipur on August 20.
Designed by Manipuri fashion designer Robert Naorem, the outfit drew inspiration from polo, locally known as kangjei.
The design included tribal motifs, handcrafted textiles and sarong-inspired drapes.
Textiles associated with the Tangkhul and Kabui communities represented Manipur’s cultural diversity.
Thadoi Yumnam, crowned Miss Universe Manipur 2026 in Imphal, represented the state at the pageant.
- Who
- Thadoi Yumnam represented Manipur, and Robert Naorem designed the costume.
- What
- A national costume showcased Manipur’s sporting traditions, textiles, craftsmanship and cultural identity.
- When
- The costume was featured at the pageant on August 20, 2026; Thadoi Yumnam was crowned Miss Universe Manipur 2026 on June 21, 2026.
- Where
- The Miss Universe India pageant took place in Jaipur, while the state pageant was held at Chandrakrit Auditorium in Imphal.
- Why
- The design aimed to highlight Manipur’s connection to sports, particularly polo or kangjei, alongside its cultural heritage.
- Designer
- Robert Naorem
- Contestant
- Thadoi Yumnam
- Pageant location
- Jaipur
- State pageant location
- Chandrakrit Auditorium, Imphal
- Sporting inspiration
- Polo, locally known as kangjei
- Textile traditions
- Tangkhul and Kabui community textiles
- State pageant finalists
- 20 finalists competed in the Manipur state pageant