KOHIMA: The 26th edition of the Hornbill Festival commenced on Monday at Naga Heritage village, Kisama near Kohima, coinciding with the 63rd Statehood Day of Nagaland.
The event was graced by Governor of Nagaland and Manipur Ajay Kumar Bhalla as the Chief Host; Chief MinisterNeiphiu Rio as the Host; and Minister for Tourism and Higher Education Temjen Imna Along as the Festival Host.
Neiphiu Rio stated that Hornbill Festival is an expression of the Nagas’ way of life; it represents the unity and oneness of the Nagas. He added that it signifies the rich legacy, living traditions and respect for the ancestors.
Emphasizing the significance of the Unity Plaza at the Main Arena of the Naga Heritage village, Kisama, the Chief Minister stated that it is a symbol of the Nagas’ oneness and shared hopes for a peaceful and prosperous future.
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The Chief Minister stated that it was an honour to have six countries: Austria, Malta, France, Ireland, UK and Switzerland, as partner countries and Arunachal Pradesh as a ‘partner state’.
Highlighting the traditions of the Nagas, Rio said that the stories, identity and customs of the Nagas have been woven through the music, dances, textiles and the vibrant community life.
Neiphiu Rio then said that the Hornbill Festival, over the years, has grown beyond the festivities and performances. He stated that it has become a unique global platform to forge partnerships and friendships. He also informed that the extension of the Hornbill Festival is being celebrated in six districts across the state.
Encouraging the visitors to the State, the Chief Minister urged them to be the ambassadors of Nagaland and share the memories with people and loved ones. He also stated that the citizens of Nagaland have been making all possible efforts to make their stay comfortable and memorable.
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Governor of Nagaland and Manipur Ajay Kumar Bhalla highlighted the significance of the festival as a celebration of the state’s cultural heritage, unity, and identity.
In his address, Bhalla noted that the Hornbill Festival stands as a testament to Nagaland’s rich traditions, vibrant art forms, and enduring values. He emphasized that the festival reflects the collective resilience of the Naga people and their commitment to preserving the legacy handed down by their ancestors.Bhalla also underlined Nagaland’s cultural diversity through dance, folk music, indigenous games, crafts, and cuisines which find its fullest expression during the festival.
Over the years, he noted that the Hornbill Festival has grown into an important platform for promoting tourism, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange. It has empowered youth and artisans, strengthened the creative sector, and showcased Nagaland prominently on both national and global cultural maps. He commended the Government of Nagaland, tribal bodies, cultural troupes, entrepreneurs, and artisans for their continued contributions.
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Emphasizing the need for sustainable tourism, he spoke on Nagaland’s ecological sensitivity and urged all stakeholders to uphold environmentally responsible practices. He encouraged initiatives that respect local cultures and ensure that tourism benefits reach grassroots communities, positioning the festival as a model for balanced and sustainable development.
Concluding his address, he called upon everyone to celebrate with unity, responsibility, and pride. He expressed confidence that the Hornbill Festival 2025 will continue to strengthen harmony, foster sustainable growth, and uphold the values of respect, hospitality, and peaceful coexistence.
Ambassador of Ireland to India, Kevin Kelly in his greetings shared the Ireland-India relations, including their fight for freedom and aspirations that inspire each other. He stated that Nagaland shares with the world a festival of affirmation of identity, resilience and creative energy. Austrian Trade Commissioner, Hans-Jörg Hörtnagl, invited the Chief Minister to bring a business delegation to Austria for partnership and collaborations. He said a Naga delegation from Nagaland participated at a Startup event in Vienna.
British Council Director Debanjan Chakrabarti highlighted some of the British and Naga ties. He stated that Nagaland and United Kingdom relations go beyond cultural ties and mulled for ties in business and trade, education and research and science and technology.
Ambassador of Switzerland Maya Tissafi spoke about the rich traditions of the Naga people and highlighted how this festival brings together tribes, families, visitors, and friends from across India.
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Maya mentioned that the festival serves as a bridge between generations, communities, and nations. She noted Switzerland and India’s long-standing partnership, rooted in innovation and people-to-people ties. She praised the creativity and skill of Naga artists, saying that their performances are deeply inspiring. The festival, Maya added, reminds us of the values of diversity, and the unity displayed across tribes and communities sends a message of peace that resonates far beyond Nagaland.
Ambassador of France to India, Thierry Mathou in his greetings mentioned that the relationship between France and India has widened considerably under the present leadership. He said France is keen to further collaborate with India and Nagaland in the sectors of IT, Education, Tourism, and Music.
Bishop of Kohima, Rev. Dr. James Thoppil pronounced the invocation which was followed by traditional blessings from Tomwang, an 87-year-old elder from Longwa Village, Mon.
Meanwhile, visitors were treated to a special performance titled “Hornbill Dream” by the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA) which featured captivating cultural and musical items, showcasing the rich and vibrant culture and traditions of Nagaland. The dignitaries also took part in the Kisama Walk, which included a visit to the traditional morungs, followed by a state dinner, held by invitation.
Thousands of people, including tourists from different parts of India and across the globe, attended the grand inaugural function.
The 26th Hornbill Festival 2025 will continue from December 1 to 10, celebrating Nagaland’s rich cultural diversity, heritage, and artistic traditions.