YouTuber and Counselor at District Tuberculosis Centre (DTC) Mokokchung, Aien Amri shared her enthusiastic views about the Hornbill Festival, describing it as the most anticipated and significant event in Nagaland. In a conversation with this newspaper, Amri highlighted the festival’s positive impact on the state, both economically and culturally.
According to Amri, the Hornbill Festival has played a crucial role in putting Nagaland prominently on the map of India. Its success has not only boosted the local economy but has also become a platform for showcasing Nagaland’s rich cultural heritage. The Tourism Department, she noted, has been actively contributing to the festival’s success by introducing innovative and creative elements.
One remarkable aspect Amri pointed out is the festival’s contribution to providing employment opportunities for the local population. Many unemployed youths set up food stalls during the night bazaar, earning substantial incomes ranging from? 1-2 lakhs in just 10 days. Additionally, local taxi services experience a surge in demand, recording their highest incomes of the year.
Having attended the festival herself, Amri praised the Hornbill Festival for providing a platform for local musicians, entertainers, craftsmen, textile artists, and writers. This exposure not only leads to increased sales but also offers much-deserved recognition to these local talents. Amri emphasized that the festival triggers entrepreneurial spirit within the tribal society, motivating productivity and generating substantial revenue for the state.
Amri sees the Hornbill Festival as a unique time when Nagaland stands boldly on its own, attracting capital from outside the state and turning locals into tourists who contribute to the thriving tourism industry.
The festival also serves as an excellent opportunity for content creators, both local and international, to showcase the vibrant culture and traditions of Nagaland, Amri said. She highlighted the importance of unity and love among people from different backgrounds, emphasizing that the festival brings together individuals from both national and international communities.
Looking ahead, Amri suggested that the success of the Hornbill Festival could potentially be reproduced in other districts. However, she emphasized the need for better infrastructure, including dust-free roads, more trees and flowers along the highways, and fair pricing for food sold at the festival grounds. To keep the event interesting and attractive to a global audience, she urged the Tourism Department to bring in new innovations and creative elements to enhance the overall experience for tourists.