76 years old Lhuvepra Venyo from the Chakhesang tribe won the third edition of the Blowing of the Horn contest at 26th International Hornbill Festival 2025 held on December 4.

The 26th International Hornbill Festival 2025, which is underway from December 1 to 10 at the Naga Heritage Village, continues to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Nagaland through vibrant performances and traditional competitions.

On the fourth day, Tribal Vision hosted the Indigenous Games Competition, featuring the age-old Blowing of the Horn contest, sponsored by the Department of Youth Resources and Sports, Nagaland. The event was open to participants from all Morungs and drew enthusiastic crowds to the Sümi Morung.

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This year’s Blowing of the Horn competition highlighted remarkable talent across generations. Lhuvepra Venyo of the Chakhesang tribe, the oldest participant in the event, delivered an exceptional performance to secure first place with 91 points. Close behind, Visosieto Vüprü of the Angami tribe claimed second place with 90.5 points. Demonstrating impressive skill at a young age, 13-year-old Ketwapeusing Haikam of the Zeliang tribe earned third place with 71 points.

The winners were awarded cash prizes of ₹5,000, ₹3,000, and ₹2,000, respectively, along with certificates recognising their achievements. The event celebrated not only competition but also the enduring spirit of traditional Naga games, drawing appreciation from visitors and participants alike.

The Hornbill Festival will continue to host cultural showcases, traditional sports, and community events throughout the week, reinforcing its role as a vibrant platform for preserving and promoting Naga heritage.