On Tuesday, the second day of the Hornbill Festival unfolded at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama—just 12 km south of Kohima—where a colorful blend of Naga dances and cultural displays took center stage. The event, presented in a traditional setting, was hosted by Deputy Chief Minister T.R. Zeliang with co‑host G. Ikuto Zhimomi, Adviser for the Land Resources Department. Among the distinguished guests were France’s Ambassador to India, Thierry Mathou, the Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court, Justice Ashutosh Kumar, and other high‑profile dignitaries.
The afternoon showcased an impressive variety of Naga traditions. The Angami troupe performed Phita, a folk dance usually reserved for festive occasions, while the Ao group staged Nokinketer, a warrior dance that celebrates bravery and martial spirit. The Chakhesang ensemble highlighted Lika/Thucuikhu, a horn‑blowing ritual for festivals, and followed it with Khridikhuhi, the Mass Curse Day ceremony observed on the last day of the second lunar month, reminding villagers to uphold peace and harmony. The Chang community brought forward Bu Sen Oneed, and the Garo performers celebrated the harvest with the timeless Wangala Dance. The Kachari troupe displayed Bima Thanai, a traditional game where one side represents a “mother” and her “children,” and the other acts as “guards.” The Konyak Naga dancers introduced Shim Shut Boa, a song sung by women while pounding rice that reflects the difficulties women face while preparing for marriage. Troupes from the Kuki, Lotha, Zeliang, Pochury, Rengma, Sangtam, Sumi, Tikhir, Yimkhiung, and Phom communities also performed their unique traditions.
The evening ended with the Zeliang troupe’s Matha-Bu Lin, a piece performed during the Chaga Gadi festival that encourages youth to showcase their vibrant culture to visitors. Meanwhile, at Monday’s inauguration, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, the festival’s host, remarked that the Hornbill Festival embodies the Nagas’ way of life, unity, and respect for heritage. With over 86 % of the state’s two‑million residents belonging to tribal groups, Nagaland’s 17 major tribes and many sub‑tribes each contribute a rich tapestry of dances, music, attire, and customs.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
