The 26th edition of the Hornbill Festival began on Monday at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama, coinciding with Nagaland’s 63rd Statehood Day. The festival was inaugurated with dignitaries including Governor of Nagaland and Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla as Chief Host; Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio as Host; and Minister for Tourism and Higher Education Temjen Imna Along as Festival Host.
Chief Minister Dr. Rio described the Hornbill Festival as a vibrant expression of Naga life, symbolizing unity and shared heritage. He highlighted the Unity Plaza at the festival’s main arena as a powerful symbol of oneness among the Nagas and expressed hope for peace and prosperity.
The Chief Minister stated that it was an honour to have six countries: Austria, Malta, France, Ireland, UK and Switzerland, as partner countries and Arunachal Pradesh as partner state.
Highlighting the traditions of the Nagas, Dr. Rio said that the stories, identity and customs of the Nagas have been woven through the music, dances, textiles and the vibrant community life.
Dr. Rio emphasized that the festival has grown into a global platform for building partnerships and friendships.
He also shared that the celebrations extend to six districts across Nagaland. Urging visitors to act as ambassadors for Nagaland, he said citizens were working to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay.
Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla highlighted the festival’s role in preserving Nagaland’s cultural heritage and promoting unity. He praised the diverse expressions of culture, including dance, folk music, indigenous games, crafts, and cuisine. He recognized the festival’s contributions to tourism, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange, applauding efforts by the government, tribal bodies, and artisans.
Bhalla also stressed the importance of sustainable tourism due to Nagaland’s ecological sensitivity and encouraged responsible practices that benefit local communities. He called for celebrating the festival with unity, responsibility, and pride, expressing confidence that the event would strengthen harmony and promote peaceful coexistence.
Ambassador of Ireland to India Kevin Kelly spoke about the shared history of Ireland and India, describing the Hornbill Festival as an affirmation of identity and resilience. Austrian Trade Commissioner Hans-Jörg Hörtnagl invited Nagaland to collaborate with Austria, noting Naga participation in a Vienna startup event.
Dr. Debanjan Chakrabarti, Director of the British Council, highlighted UK-Nagaland ties beyond culture, including opportunities in business, education, and science. Swiss Ambassador Maya Tissafi praised the festival as a bridge connecting generations and nations and lauded Naga artists for their creativity. French Ambassador Thierry Mathou expressed interest in strengthening ties in IT, education, tourism, and music.
The festival began with an invocation by Bishop of Kohima, Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, followed by traditional blessings from Tomwang, an elder from Longwa Village in Mon district. Minister Temjen Imna Along thanked the people of Nagaland for their resilience in showcasing their culture and described the festival as a celebration of unity and Naga identity. He acknowledged the important role of partner countries and states in bringing the festival into the modern arena.
Visitors enjoyed a special performance titled “Hornbill Dream” by the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA), featuring cultural and musical presentations reflecting Nagaland’s heritage. The dignitaries participated in the Kisama Walk, which included visits to traditional morungs (men’s dormitories), followed by a State Dinner.
Thousands of people, including tourists from across India and abroad, attended the inaugural event. The 26th Hornbill Festival will run from 1 to 10 December 2025, celebrating the rich cultural diversity and artistic traditions of Nagaland. (With DIPR inputs)
