24th edition of Hornbill Festival to kick off at Naga Heritage village, Kisama

KOHIMA — The much-awaited 24th edition of Hornbill festival will kick off on Friday at Naga Heritage village, Kisama, some 12km away from the state capital Kohima.

Like the previous editions, the colourful festival which showcases the rich cultural heritage of Nagaland, is anticipated to attract thousands of curious tourists from around the world, besides domestic tourists. Cultural troupes from 18 indigenous tribes of Nagaland will perform daily at the main arena, with the newly recognised Tikhir Naga tribe making its maiden entry in the festival.

The indigenous tribes include Angami, Ao, Chakhesang, Chang, Khiamniungan, Konyak, Lotha, Phom, Pochury, Rengma, Sangtam, Sumi, Tikhir, Yimkhiung, Zeliang, Garo, Kachari and Kuki. Besides the display of cultural dances, songs, demonstration of tribal practices, indigenous games, and exhibition of handloom and handicrafts, the visitors and tourists will get to taste a variety of tribal cuisines, organic fruits and vegetables – all ‘Naturally Nagaland’ – for gastronomic delight.

Are YOU Ready ? 🕺💃

The stage is set, the excitement is building. #HornbillFestival2023 is bringing the magic ✨ to Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, from December 1-10.

Join the celebration, and create unforgettable memories! pic.twitter.com/vb8r9IZBmA

— nagalandtourism (@tourismdeptgon) November 30, 2023

Visitors can also get a glimpse of the majestic Mithun – the state animal of Nagaland – and ‘Tenyi Vo’/ ‘Votho,’ a native breed of pig from rural Nagaland, put up for exhibition. They can also treat themselves to organic honey produce and Nagaland-grown coffee.

The venue itself will give an insight into the Naga way of life, a kaleidoscope of the culture and tradition of the various tribes of Nagaland.

Besides the main venue at Kisama, the other destinations which promise rich experiences include Kohima village, the second largest village in Asia; Khonoma village; Khezhakeno, the ancestral Naga village; Kohima Cathedral; World War II Cemetery in the heart of Kohima, and night carnivals.

Meanwhile, the International Hornbill Music festival in the evenings at Kisama main arena will feature prominent local artistes, bands from countries like Colombia, Germany, USA and from across the country.

Festival inauguration

The inauguration of the ‘festival of festivals’ will take place at the Kisama Heritage village on Friday evening with the Governor of Nagaland La Ganesan as the chief host, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio as host and Temjen Imna Along, Minister of Tourism and Higher Education as co-host.

The special guests are Eric Garcetti, Ambassador of USA to India; Alex Ellis, British High Commissioner to India; Dr. Victor Echeverri Jaramillo, Ambassador of Colombia to India, and Barbara Voss, German Consul General, Kolkata. Monte Chupa, chief of the Kukegwo village, will invoke the traditional blessing.