The 26th edition of the renowned Hornbill Festival, Nagaland’s “Festival of Festivals,” began on Monday at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama, marking a vibrant start to the state’s most significant annual cultural event. The opening day was made even more special as it coincided with the celebration of Nagaland’s 63rd Statehood Day.
The ten-day extravaganza, which runs until December 10, is a major showcase of the rich cultural diversity, traditions, and heritage of all major Naga tribes under one roof. The inaugural ceremony, held in the newly christened Unity Plaza, was graced by the Governor of Nagaland, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, as the Chief Host, and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio as the Host. The festival began with an invocation by the Bishop of Kohima, Rev. Dr James Thoppil, followed by traditional blessings from Tomwang, an elder from Longwa Village in Mon district.
Chief Minister Rio hailed the festival as an expression of the Naga way of life, signifying unity, oneness, and respect for their ancestors. He noted that the festival has grown from a tourism initiative into a global platform, drawing visitors and collaborators from across the world. 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.
This year’s Hornbill Festival boasts the largest-ever international participation, featuring six partner countries: the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Austria, Malta, and Switzerland. Arunachal Pradesh has also joined as the official state partner, strengthening inter-state cultural ties. The international dignitaries expressed their enthusiasm for the cultural exchange. 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 festivities commenced amidst positive developments for the state’s tourism sector. Following persistent appeals from the state government, the Centre announced a relaxation of the Protected Area Permit (PAP) regime for the duration of the festival. Chief Minister Rio used the occasion of the 63rd Statehood Day to reiterate his appeal to the Government of India for the complete withdrawal of the PAP system, arguing it would further boost tourism and investment in the state.
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, running until December 10, is set to reaffirm its status as a grand celebration of Naga identity, tradition, and a welcoming window to the world.
