KOHIMA, Dec 2: The 25th edition of the Hornbill Festival kicked off at the Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, on December 1, 2024, with an overwhelming 23,910 visitors attending the opening day of the highly anticipated cultural event. Among the visitors were 513 foreign tourists, 5,486 domestic attendees from across India, and 17,911 local participants from Nagaland, reflecting the festival’s broad appeal.
The event was inaugurated by Nagaland Governor La Ganesan, who served as the Chief Host, and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, the Host, who welcomed guests to the “Festival of Festivals,” marking its silver jubilee. In his inaugural address, Governor Ganesan described the Hornbill Festival as a celebration of tradition, unity, and cultural diversity, calling it a “testament to the diversity of mother India” and an opportunity to reflect on the 25 years of achievements since its inception. He emphasized the importance of celebrating unity in diversity and highlighted how the festival fosters global connections.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio also extended a warm welcome to visitors from across the globe, including representatives from Japan, Peru, the UK (Wales), the United States, Bulgaria, and embassy officials, as well as Dr. A.R. Rahman. He described the festival as a living embodiment of the Naga way of life, its vibrant culture, and traditions, and praised it as a legacy of the Naga forefathers. Rio underscored the festival’s role as a platform that celebrates Naga culture while promoting international goodwill and collaboration.
The event was further graced by the presence of several dignitaries. Keiichi Ono, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to India, expressed his enthusiasm for collaborating with Nagaland to promote its cultural heritage, citing shared historical ties, especially the significance of bamboo in both Naga and Japanese cultures. He also mentioned Japanese initiatives that employ over 100 Naga youths in Japan.
Javier Manuel Paulinich Velarde, Ambassador of Peru to India, spoke of the shared values between Peru and Nagaland, announcing that a Peruvian dance would be showcased at the festival, promoting cultural exchange. British High Commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron, CB OBE, highlighted Wales’ partnership with the festival this year, marking the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Kohima, and emphasized the deep historical ties and potential for future collaborations in music.
Padma Bhushan awardee and Grammy and Oscar-winning musician Dr. A.R. Rahman, who has long admired the talents of Naga musicians, shared his experiences of being inspired by the region’s music for his documentary Headhunting to Beatboxing. Rahman captivated the audience with a special performance during the ceremony.
Alison Barrett, Country Director for India at the British Council, reflected on her first visit to Nagaland 25 years ago and stressed the importance of culture, music, and language in fostering community connections. Andrew Gwatkin, Director of International Relations and Trade, Welsh Government, noted the similarity between the Naga hills and the Welsh ranges, emphasizing the shared community ties and the potential for partnerships in healthcare, innovation, and youth collaboration.
Nagaland’s Minister for Tourism and Higher Education, Temjen Imna Along, concluded the ceremony with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of the Governor, Chief Minister, and various government officials, tribal bodies, and cultural troupes. He also thanked visitors for their participation and urged them to take home fond memories of Nagaland.
The opening ceremony ended with traditional blessings from Medoo Keretsu, Head Gaonbura of Kohima Village, followed by the vibrant performance of “The Flight of the Hornbill” presented by the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA).
The Hornbill Festival will continue until December 10, 2024, celebrating Nagaland’s rich cultural heritage and promoting international collaboration.
