The 2025 Hornbill Festival, Nagaland’s premier cultural showcase, is poised to offer an unprecedented fusion of indigenous heritage and global music when it returns to the Kisama Heritage Village from December 1-10. Officially dubbed the “Festival of Festivals,” this year’s event promises an expanded, more vibrant celebration of the state’s 16 Naga tribes alongside a stellar international music lineup.
The festival’s core remains a vibrant display of Naga culture, featuring traditional dance, music, crafts, indigenous games, and local cuisine. However, its parallel music festival, organised by the Task Force for Music & Arts (TaFMA), has become a major draw. The 2025 edition will see a significant expansion, with events hosted in six districts to broaden access and promote regional tourism.
“The 2025 festival is a testament to our vision of a global stage rooted in local tradition. We are thrilled to present an eclectic mix of artists from across the globe, creating a unique cultural dialogue right here in the heart of Nagaland,” revealed Theja Meru, Chairman of TaFMA.
The international roster is notably diverse, featuring the powerful return of Japan’s drumming sensation Drum Tao. They will be joined by acts from Scotland (Rumac), Ireland (BoINN – Friends of the Mary Wallopers), South Korea (Mongdoll), and France (Agniva), among others. A special collaborative performance between South Korea’s Mongdoll and Naga band Trance Effect is highly anticipated, symbolising the festival’s fusion spirit.
The local music scene will be equally represented with performances by Indian and Naga favourites like The Fantastic Company, Gingerfeet, and Street Stories. New features include the Hornbill Busking Zone, offering a platform for emerging artists from all of Nagaland’s 17 districts, and the inaugural Nagaland Choir Games.
For attendees, planning is key. Indian visitors require an Inner Line Permit (ILP), while foreign tourists need a valid Indian visa and must register with local authorities upon arrival. “The energy is indescribable. Where else can you witness a traditional warrior dance in the afternoon and a world-class rock concert under the stars at night? It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Anika Sharma, a returning visitor from Delhi.
With its commitment to cultural preservation and global connection, the Hornbill Festival 2025 solidifies its status as a must-visit event on the global cultural calendar.
