The Cultural Connect of Day 7 at the ongoing 26th Hornbill Festival in Kohima showcased the cultural diversity and unity of the eight North Eastern states. The event took place on Sunday at the Unity Plaza, Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, Kohima.

Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Home and Border Affairs Yanthungo Patton attended the programme as the Host, while Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, Advisor for School Education and SCERT, served as the Co-Host. S. Krishnan, Secretary in the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, participated as the Special Guest, along with other dignitaries.

The cultural lineup featured the Cheraw or Bamboo Dance of Mizoram, followed by the Nyishi community of Arunachal presenting Juju Jaja Jaminja. From Manipur, the Kabui Rongmei community performed Duisha Laam, also known as the Waterfall Dance. The Chakma community of Tripura presented the Bizu Dance, while Meghalaya’s Khasi community performed the Mastieh Dance.

Representing Nagaland, Lotha women showcased Nzanta and Mungyanta. Sikkim’s Bhutia community performed the Snow Lion Dance (Singhi Chham), a traditional tribute to Mt. Khangchendzonga. The Karbi community of Asaam presented their traditional Chong Kedam.

The event was curated by the North East Zone Cultural Centre, Dimapur, highlighting the shared heritage and cultural harmony of the North Eastern region.