Hornbill Festival prelude: Autumn Festival to begin in Delhi from Oct. 24

DIMAPUR — Nagaland Tourism department, supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, is all set to light up and color the city with the eagerly anticipated 4th edition of the Autumn Festival at the lawns of Nagaland House, in New Delhi on Oct. 24 and the 25th.

An update issued on Saturday informed that the festival -- a curtain-raiser to the 26th edition of the iconic Hornbill Festival -- returns following three successful editions.

This time with renewed enthusiasm and grandeur, the festival aims to provide Delhi residents with a glimpse of the vibrant Hornbill Festival experience, particularly for those unable to travel to Nagaland, while also offering insights for those interested in witnessing this unique celebration firsthand, informed the update.

The festival is said to be graced by Kapil Mishra, Minister for Tourism, Art and Culture, Government of NCT Delhi as chief guest.

Temjen Imna Along, Minister of Tourism and Higher Education, Government of Nagaland mentioned, “In the last three editions, the Autumn Festival has received an overwhelming response from the people of Delhi and embraced the spirit of the festival with so much warmth. Encouraged by this success and inspired to bring more of Nagaland to the people of Delhi, we return this year with the same enthusiasm but enriched with new experiences and offerings. This festival also serves both as an experience and an invitation, an opportunity to share a glimpse of Nagaland to the heart of India, and to strengthen the cultural bonds that bind us.”

The two-day event is said to feature a diverse array of Naga brands and artists, showcasing the best of cuisine, handicrafts, textiles, art, and music.

Also read: Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival bags national award for best cultural music and dance

The festival will come alive with performances by prominent artists such as Colored Keys, The Mahila Band from India’s Got Talent, and The Eastory Project, among others.

Participating brands include Made in Nagaland, Kintem, the Department of Sericulture featuring the State’s award-winning Eri Silk (also known as Naga Silk), the Department of Horticulture with fresh seasonal produce from the State, and the Department of Tribal Affairs, among others.

A rich selection of traditional Naga cuisines will be offered at the food stalls, while local craftspeople will engage visitors through live weaving and handicraft demonstrations, creating an immersive and experiential atmosphere.

The festival will also feature jewellery and textile presentations, highlighting Naga products reimagined for a global audience, alongside captivating musical performances by renowned artists, choirs, and bands from the state.

The update further informed that the first day of the festival would be exclusive, an invitation-only event, while the second day is said to open to all.

Launched in 2000 as a modest celebration, the Hornbill Festival has grown into a landmark cultural showcase in India, celebrating its 26th edition this year.