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Our Correspondent
Kohima, Dec. 1 (EMN): The 23rd edition of the Hornbill Festival kicked off with a thrilling cultural extravaganza wherein scores of artistes clad in colourful traditional attires showcased the rich Naga culture, tradition and customs through dances and music.
As the governor, chief minister of Nagaland and a host of foreign delegates along with chief guest Jagdeep Dhankhar arrived in the main arena, all cultural troupes began singing and dancing in their respective circles while they were escorted to the performance stage for the formal programme.
National anthem was performed by Police Brass Band and guitarist Imnainla; the chief guest declared the festival open by beating the traditional gong.
Folk song began to resonate the venue while a video was played on the theme - This is Nagaland with Ruopfüzhano Whiso welcoming people to the Hornbill Festival 2022.
With backing tracks, Neise Meruno and Cantamus Choir, Nagaland Folkloric, Unity Walk, Tetseo Sisters, Coloured Keys, Lenen Jamir and co took the stage among others to render lively performances.
Nagaland Folkloric staged another performance, before the crowd was enthralled with the Azadi Mohotsav song.
The captivating opening ceremony wrapped up by Project Stardust kept the crowd moving with English and Hindi covers for several minutes.