Nagaland will welcome the United Kingdom as a country partner for the 26th Hornbill Festival, a deal signed in New Delhi on Monday.
The British Council will join the state’s celebration of its Statehood Day from Dec. 1‑10 at the Naga heritage village of Kisama.
The festival, which focuses on Naga music, dance and handicrafts, will feature a UK artist for the first time in 25 years. Scottish musician Ruairidh Maclean – known as RuMac – will perform on Dec. 2.
The agreement was signed by Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and British Council India director Alison Barrett in the presence of British High Commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron, and senior officials from both sides. The partnership aims to boost cultural exchange, support creative talent and raise Nagaland’s profile worldwide.
British Council representatives will work closely with the UK’s Deputy High Commission in Kolkata to curate “meaningful programming” for the fortnight‑long event. The UK’s participation is expected to deepen ties in culture, tourism, education and business.
CM Rio welcomed the partnership, saying it “reflects shared values and a strong commitment to cultural exchange.” He added that Nagaland looks forward to welcoming UK artists to the “Land of Festivals.”
British High Commissioner Lindy Cameron highlighted the festival’s role as a “living bridge” between UK and India, noting how previous celebrations brought together Welsh, Naga and Khasi performers. Director Alison Barrett said the collaboration would let UK artists “understand the remarkable diversity of India” and strengthen creative ecosystems.
Ruairidh Maclean, who will headline the festival, expressed excitement about his debut in Nagaland: “I’m thrilled to be performing at the Hornbill Festival and bringing a little bit of the Highlands of Scotland along with me. I hope you’ll enjoy what I do! Slainte!”
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