Global cultures converge as Ireland and Switzerland become Country Partners
Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival 2025 is set to embrace an unprecedented international dimension with Ireland and Switzerland announced as the official Country Partners for this year’s festival. The announcements were made jointly by Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio, Ambassador Kevin Kelly of Ireland, and Ambassador H.E. Maya Tissafi of Switzerland during events in New Delhi today.
Speaking on behalf of the Nagaland government, Dr Rio said, “Nagaland is honored to welcome Ireland and Switzerland as our Country Partners for this year’s Hornbill Festival. Their rich cultures, heritage, and artistic traditions resonate deeply with our own, making these partnerships both meaningful and special.” He added, “We see immense potential for expanded collaboration across culture, tourism, education, creative industries, youth exchange, sustainable development, and people-to-people engagement.”
As the official partner, the Embassy of Ireland will bring a vibrant lineup of cultural and artistic experiences to the festival. This includes performances by the acclaimed Irish folk band The Mary Wallopers, who have come together under the name Boinn, a reference to the Irish goddess of the River Boyne. Hailing from Dublin and Dundalk, Boinn will perform traditional Irish ballads and rare folk songs in a contemporary style at the festival’s opening.
The Embassy will also host a discussion led by Professor Jane Ohlmeyer, MRIA, one of Ireland’s most distinguished historians, exploring Ireland’s history of colonization and shared lessons with Nagaland. Delhi-based Kaivalya Plays will offer dramatized readings from James Joyce’s Dubliners, theatre workshops, and allied learning engagements for young performing arts enthusiasts in Nagaland. Additionally, a collaborative Irish public arts installation featuring the pagan goddess Danu will be showcased in Kohima.
Ambassador Kevin Kelly said, “Ireland’s partnership with the Hornbill Festival reflects the growing depth of Ireland-India relations and the shared commitment to cultural collaboration and peace-building dialogue. We hope that people of Nagaland enjoy the best of Irish art, culture, and theatre.”
Switzerland’s participation further strengthens the festival’s global appeal. Ambassador HE Maya Tissafi described the partnership as an opportunity to celebrate Swiss traditions, creativity, and people-to-people connections alongside Nagaland’s vibrant cultural tapestry. Dr. Rio welcomed Switzerland, stating, “Switzerland’s global reputation for hospitality, innovation, and cultural richness complements Nagaland’s own heritage as the Land of Festivals. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to meaningful global engagement.”
Organised annually by the Government of Nagaland from December 1 to 10, the Hornbill Festival is the state’s largest public celebration of culture and heritage. Since its inception in 2000, the festival has become a symbol of unity among Nagaland’s 17 major tribes, fostering tourism, reconciliation, and pride in a shared cultural identity. (With inputs from DIPR)
