Kohima, Dec 10 (IAI) – The 26th Hornbill Festival wrapped up on Wednesday evening with a burst of color and joy at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama, just south of Kohima. Cultural troupes from all eight northeastern states, especially Nagaland, filled the venue with traditional music, dance, and arts.
The long‑running festival was staged across several districts in Nagaland. To cast a global spotlight, six countries—Austria, France, Ireland, Malta, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom—partnered for this year’s ten‑day event (Dec 1–10) held at Kisama, about 12 km from the state capital. Arunachal Pradesh also joined as the state partner.
In keeping with tradition, the festival was opened on Dec 1, aligning with Nagaland’s 63rd Statehood Day. Deputy Chief Minister T.R. Zeliang highlighted why the Hornbill Festival earns the title “Festival of Festivals.” He said it showcases the Naga people’s traditions, culture, and food, providing a platform for tribes, villages, artisans, entrepreneurs, and youth to display their diversity to the world. “More than a celebration, it becomes a place where cultures meet, generations connect, and aspirations thrive,” he added.
Zeliang emphasized that the event reflects who the Nagas are—proud of their heritage, confident in identity, hopeful for the future. “Let this spirit of togetherness extend beyond Kisama into daily life,” he urged. He praised the presence of dignitaries from India and abroad, noting the festival’s growing role as Nagaland’s cultural “soft power” on the world stage. Visitors, he said, leave with goodwill and vivid memories, helping dispel misunderstandings about the region.
Nagaland Tourism and Higher Education Minister Temjen Imna Along closed the festival with gratitude to guests, friends, and tourists. He reminded everyone of the resilience and creativity of both cultural and contemporary performers who represent Nagaland worldwide. “The Hornbill Festival is a stage and the world its audience,” he remarked. He thanked the partner countries and Arunachal Pradesh for their enthusiastic participation, hoping that the bonds formed will endure.
Deputy Ambassador Raymond Mullen of the Irish Embassy expressed deep admiration for Nagaland’s hospitality and friendship. He noted that Ireland’s partnership was both an honour and a source of pride, viewing the festival as a testament to cultural identity and confidence. Mullen looked forward to deeper cooperation with young Naga talent across education, research, tourism, culture, sports, entrepreneurship, agriculture, and people‑to‑people exchanges.
High Commissioner Reuben Gauci of Malta spoke of Nagaland’s special place in his heart, likening the warmth of its people to that of the Maltese. He shared a Maltese poem celebrating the state and thanked the festival organisers.
Following tradition, Miss Nagaland 2025 Linoka K. Achumi lit the final bonfire, signalling the end of the 26th Hornbill Festival.
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