Newmai News Network
Kohima: The 25th edition of the Hornbill Festival commenced with pomp and gaiety at the Naga Heritage Village, Kisama near Kohima today,
Speaking on the occasion, Nagaland Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio began by sending his greetings to all over the world on behalf of the people of Nagaland. He gave a special welcome to Japan, Peru, UK (Wales), United States of America, Bulgaria, the embassy officials as well as Dr. A. R. Rahman.
He described the Hornbill Festival as an embodiment of the spirit of the Naga way of life, its vibrant culture and traditions. He emphasized on the festival being a legacy of the Naga forefathers and their spirit of unity and oneness.
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Rio mentioned that over the years, the festival has transcended to bringing not just the citizens of the country together but also bringing together different nations for the greater good of humanity. He paid tribute to the people of Nagaland, their resilience and creativity, “and that 25 years of Hornbill Festival stands as a testament of its unity and brotherhood”. He said that each Naga citizen is an equal stakeholder of the festival.
Rio thanked the foreign ambassadors sincerely for their efforts to travel to a far corner of the world and encouraged them to immerse themselves in the culture and come back with more friends and loved ones.
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to India, Keiichi Ono expressed his excitement to collaborate with Nagaland to promote its charms. He mentioned the shared common history of the importance of bamboo in the lives of Nagas as well as the Japanese. He also emphasized on Japanese schemes that have employed over 100 Naga youths in Japan.
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Ambassador of the Republic of Peru, Javier Manuel Paulinich Velarde talked about the shared values of the people of Peru and Nagaland. He said that the Peruvian dance will be showcased at the Hornbill Festival stage which will resonate with the Nagas and make deeper connections with them.
British High Commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron, CB OBE said that she felt excited that Wales is a partner country for this edition’s Hornbill Festival as it is the 80th year of the Battle of Kohima where it has a deep historical tie with the British people as well. She endorsed the idea of furthering the partnership in the future through their shared love of music.
Padma Bhushan, Grammy and Oscar winner, Dr. A. R. Rahman began by talking about his love for Nagaland and the talent of the Naga people. He compared the energy of the Naga musicians as akin to the musicians abroad which later inspired him to make a documentary “Headhunting to Beatboxing” about Naga artists. He enthralled the crowd with a special number.
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Country Director, India, British Council Division and Minister Education and Cultural Affairs, Alison Barrett talked about her first visit to Nagaland 25 years ago during the humble beginning of the Hornbill Festival. She emphasized on the importance of culture, music and language and its importance of sharing it with communities. She talked about the power of music which brings together Nagaland and Wales.
Director of International Relations & Trade, Welsh Government, Andrew Gwatkin began by talking about how he felt like he was coming home due to the likeness of the Naga hills to those of the Welsh ranges. He talked about the importance of the Indian community in Wales. He mentioned the partnerships that have been garnered between the nations in the sectors of healthcare, innovation, and youth.
Deputy Chief of Mission, United States Embassy, Jorgan Andrews talked about the spirit of humanity through the festival, and that the US government is proud to be a part of it along with the other partner countries. He thanked the people of Nagaland for their overwhelming hospitality.
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The 10-day long festival will conclude on December 10.
(This is not a Ukhrul Times publication. UT is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any reports or views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of Ukhrul Times.)
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