Bonfire Marks End of Nagaland Hornbill Festival 2025
Agartala, Dec 10: The 26th Hornbill Festival drew to a colourful close on Wednesday at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama, near Kohima, with spectacular presentations by cultural troupes from all eight Northeastern states, led by vibrant performances from Nagaland.
The 10-day festival, held from December 1 to 10, extended to various districts of the state this year. To globalise its cultural imprint, six nations — Austria, France, Ireland, Malta, Switzerland and the United Kingdom — partnered in the event, while Arunachal Pradesh joined as the state partner.
The festival opened on December 1, coinciding with Nagaland’s 63rd Statehood Day, continuing its tradition of celebrating Naga identity through dance, music, crafts, cuisine and community participation.
Cultural Pride, Unity & Global Presence Emphasised
Deputy Chief Minister T.R. Zeliang, in his festival message, described Hornbill as the “Festival of Festivals”, noting that the platform allows tribes, artisans, entrepreneurs and youth to exhibit their diverse cultural brilliance to the world. He said the festival reflects the pride and identity of the Naga people, while fostering dreams for the future.
Zeliang stressed that the spirit of unity celebrated in Kisama should extend beyond the festival grounds. Over 26 years, he said, the event has welcomed dignitaries from across India and abroad, transforming Hornbill into a powerful symbol of cultural diplomacy.
He added that misconceptions about Nagaland are fading as visitors experience Naga warmth and hospitality firsthand, returning with goodwill and cherished memories.
Global Delegations Praise Cultural Exchange
Tourism and Higher Education Minister Temjen Imna Along thanked visitors, tourists, partners and performers, stating that Hornbill has evolved into a global platform watched by the world. He appreciated the cultural and contemporary performers for showcasing Naga traditions with resilience and pride.
Along also extended gratitude to Arunachal Pradesh and the partner nations, expressing hope that bonds forged during the festival will lead to long-term cultural and developmental collaborations.
Ireland’s Deputy Ambassador Raymond Mullen said his delegation was deeply moved by the kindness received in Nagaland, calling the partnership an honour and source of pride. He emphasised that Ireland hopes to strengthen cooperation in education, tourism, culture, sports, agriculture and youth exchange.
Malta’s High Commissioner Reuben Gauci also shared his emotional connection to Nagaland, noting cultural similarities between its people and the Maltese. He even recited a Maltese poem expressing love for the state and thanked the organisers for the experience.
Tradition Marks the Finale
As per Hornbill tradition, Miss Nagaland 2025, Linoka K. Achumi, lit the concluding bonfire, formally signalling the end of this year’s festival. (With inputs from IANS)
