Kohima, Dec 2: The 25th edition of Nagaland’s celebrated Hornbill Festival began on Sunday, December 1, at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama, with thousands of domestic and international visitors gathered to experience the vibrant cultural event. The 10-day festival highlights the diverse traditions of Nagaland’s tribes, alongside international performances from countries such as Japan, Wales, and Peru.

The opening ceremony was a grand spectacle, featuring a fusion of traditional Naga cultural performances and modern music. Nagaland Governor La Ganesan and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio officially inaugurated the festival by striking the traditional Naga gong. The ceremony also included blessings from Medoo Keretsu, the 85-year-old Head Gaon Burah (village chief) of Kohima, and prayers led by Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima. Renowned musician A R Rahman captivated the audience with a rendition of his iconic song “Nadaan Parindey Ghar Aaja.”

Known as the “festival of festivals,” the Hornbill Festival brings together Nagaland’s 18 major tribes, providing a platform to showcase their unique cultures through music, dance, and crafts. Governor Ganesan praised the event for fostering cultural exchange, while Chief Minister Rio underscored its significance in preserving the traditions of the Naga people. The festivities, which will run until December 10, continue to draw global attention and promote international cultural connections.