The essence of Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival came alive in Delhi on Friday as Nagaland Tourism organized a vibrant cultural evening at Nagaland House. The event offered a glimpse into the state’s rich heritage through traditional music, attire, handicrafts, and cuisine.

The cultural showcase served as a prelude to the annual Hornbill Festival, scheduled from December 1 to 10 at Kisama Heritage Village near Kohima. The event attracted a large gathering of Delhi residents, tourists, and members of the Naga community.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh, Delhi Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra, and Thailand’s Ambassador to India, Chavanart Thangsumphant, attended the event. Nagaland Tourism Minister Temjen Imna Along felicitated the dignitaries with traditional Naga headgear and highlighted the cultural and emotional connections between Nagaland and Delhi.

“Delhi is not just the capital of India but the heartbeat of the nation,” Along said, noting the long-standing presence of Nagas in the city.

The evening featured rhythmic Naga drum performances, traditional songs, tribal attire displays, organic produce exhibitions, and a ramp walk by Naga students showcasing ethnic wear.

Kapil Mishra told reporters he plans to attend this year’s Hornbill Festival and expressed interest in organizing annual Naga cultural events in Delhi. Minister Along briefed the media on the 26th edition of the festival, describing it as the “festival of festivals” that unites Nagaland’s 17 major tribes and partner states. He invited everyone to experience Nagaland’s traditions, music, and hospitality this December.

Along also highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for Northeast development and reaffirmed Nagaland’s commitment to promoting environment-friendly tourism.