Rs 25 lakh Band Battle to open route to Hornbill Music Festival Kohima
The Government of Nagaland, through Tourism Nagaland and the Task Force for Music & Arts (TaFMA), has announced that Ticket to Hornbill 2026 will be held on October 16 and 17 at Talkatora Stadium, New Delhi. The two-day showcase will introduce Delhi audiences to Nagaland’s cultural identity while creating a high-visibility opportunity for emerging musical talent from across India.
Conceived as a prelude to the Hornbill Festival, the event will showcase Nagaland’s music, heritage and artistic character ahead of the annual celebration in December. The opening programme on October 16 will feature cultural performances, live music and artistic presentations from the state. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Union ministers, ambassadors and other senior dignitaries are expected to attend, subject to final confirmation. Entry will be free, with gates opening at 5 pm.
Tourism and Higher Education Minister Temjen Imna Along said, “Ticket to Hornbill gives audiences in Delhi a direct introduction to Nagaland’s cultural energy and offers a compelling reason to experience the Hornbill Festival in December.” He said the initiative would strengthen tourism interest, cultural exchange and public engagement with the communities and creative traditions that define the state.
The October 17 programme will feature Ticket to Hornbill, India’s Biggest Band Battle, bringing emerging groups from across the country before a live audience. The winning act will earn a performance opportunity at the Hornbill Music Festival in Nagaland in December, providing exposure at one of India’s prominent cultural gatherings.
Advisor to the Chief Minister and Chairman of the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland, Abu Metha, said, “Nagaland’s young people have earned recognition in music through ability, discipline and enterprise.” He said the initiative would connect talent with “wider markets, professional networks and viable careers” while creating new economic opportunities.
Presented by Casio India, the competition carries a Rs 20 lakh cash prize pool, along with individual instrument prizes worth Rs 5 lakh sponsored by Furtados and Sennheiser.
Casio India Managing Director Takuto Kimura said musicians need opportunities “to perform, connect with audiences and be discovered”, adding that the partnership would support artists from learning and practice to live performance and recognition.
TaFMA Chairman Theja Meru said the contest would address the lack of access to major venues, industry attention and financial support faced by independent bands through a national competition, substantial prizes and a direct route to the Hornbill Music Festival. He said the organisers were looking for “original musicianship, strong performance and artistic conviction”.
The band battle will begin at 5 pm on October 17. Tickets are priced at Rs 200 and can be purchased through ahibi.in.
