Hornbill Festival 2025 opens at Kisama; Governor Bhalla calls for sustainable tourism

KISAMA — The 26th edition of Hornbill Festival opened on Monday at the Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, with visitors filling the newly developed Unity Plaza for the inaugural programme.

Nagaland Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, the chief host of the festival, formally inaugurated the annual event. Extending greetings, he described Hornbill Festival as a premier platform showcasing Naga cultural heritage, unity and identity.

In his address, Bhalla said the festival, widely known as the “Festival of Festivals”, reflects the rich traditions, art forms and values of the Naga people. He added that it stands as a testament to the community’s resilience and its commitment to preserving ancestral legacies.

He highlighted the state’s cultural diversity expressed through dances, folk music, indigenous games, crafts and cuisines, noting that these elements find their fullest expression during the festival. He said the event reaffirms the responsibility to safeguard Nagaland’s heritage for future generations.

The governor also underscored the growing role of Hornbill Festival in promoting tourism, entrepreneurship and cultural exchange, strengthening creative industries and placing Nagaland more prominently on the national and global cultural map. He lauded the efforts of the state government, tribal bodies, cultural troupes and entrepreneurs for sustaining the festival’s momentum over the years.

Calling for responsible and sustainable tourism, Bhalla reminded visitors and stakeholders of Nagaland’s ecological sensitivity. He urged environmentally conscious practices, respect for local cultures and efforts to ensure that tourism benefits reach grassroots communities.

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Welcoming visitors from across India and abroad, he expressed hope that their time in Nagaland would be enriching as they engage with local communities and the natural landscape.

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, who hosted the festival, welcomed participants to Kisama and said the Unity Plaza represents Naga oneness and shared aspirations for peace and prosperity.

Rio expressed delight at the participation of six country partners—Austria, Malta, France, Ireland, the United Kingdom and Switzerland—and welcomed Arunachal Pradesh as the partner state. He said their presence would help deepen friendship, cultural understanding and long-term partnerships.

Describing Hornbill Festival as an expression of the Naga way of life, Rio said it embodies unity, cultural legacy and respect for ancestors. He added that the festival has evolved into a global platform for collaborations beyond cultural performances.

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The chief minister noted that this year’s celebrations extend far beyond Kisama, with Hornbill Extensions across six districts and hundreds of events, including a major programme in Mon district, known as the Land of the Anghs. He encouraged visitors to explore the state’s villages and cultural landscapes.

Acknowledging challenges in infrastructure and connectivity, he apologised for any inconvenience to visitors and encouraged them to share feedback. He urged guests to become ambassadors of Nagaland and return in future with friends and family.

Honoured guests at the opening ceremony included Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France; Kevin Kelly, Ambassador of Ireland; Maya Tissfi, Ambassador of Switzerland; Hans-Jörg Hörtnagl, Austrian Trade Commissioner; Dr. Andrew Fleming, British Deputy High Commissioner; and Shyamala Ramanan, Business Head, Mia by Tanishq. They delivered greetings expressing appreciation for the partnership.

An invocation prayer was offered by Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, followed by traditional blessings from 87-year-old Tomwang of Longwa Village, Mon.

The combined choir of the Kohima Baptist Pastors Fellowship presented ‘Hallelujah Chorus’.