The 5th edition of the Khaozaosie–Hok-Ah cum Mini Hornbill festival 2026 drew to a warm and memorable close with a traditional bonfire ceremony on January 21 Nokhu, Noklak district, marking the culmination of days filled with cultural pride, and celebration. The glowing bonfire symbolised renewal, harmony, and togetherness, as people from different villages gathered to celebrate .
In his speech, Special guest A Chingmak Chang, President of Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organization ( ENPO) delved on the issue of the Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) where he acknowledged that the state government has opened the door for FNT by sending a recommendation to the Centre. After over a decade of demanding FNT, he said the aspiration is now closer to becoming a reality. He therefore appealed to all Eastern Nagas to continue their prayers and support to ensure the fulfilment of this long-standing demand.
Chang also urged all officers posted in Noklak district, under the leadership of the Deputy Commissioner, to take a proactive role in the progress and development of the district. He further appealed to the citizens of Noklak district to cooperate with the officers in all developmental activities.
While extending greetings on the occasion of the Khaozaosie Hok-Ah cum Hornbill Festival 2026, Chang expressed hope that the festival would serve as a platform to forget and forgive past differences, foster trust, and strengthen unity among the people and tribes.
Festival host MLA P. Longon, in his brief speech, stated that with the Khaozaosie Hok-Ah cum Mini Hornbill Festival 2026, people should begin to trust one another and strengthen unity within the Khiamniungan tribe as well as with other tribes. He added that the state government has initiated tribal festivals with the aim of fostering unity among the tribes and the Nagas as a whole, thereby advancing the collective aspirations and unity of the Naga people.
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Deputy Commissioner, Noklak, Mono Khiamniungan, extended Khaozaosie–Hok-Ah greetings on Day 3 (Rest Day) of the festival. In his address, he advised the community to preserve the rich culture and traditions of the tribe and emphasised the importance of agriculture as a sustainable livelihood. Further, the DC also informed the public that a household listing would be conducted soon and urged the community to remain aware and extend full cooperation during the process.
The festival concluded with a bonfire ceremony, with the torch borne by L. Ngon, President of KTC, and Miss Khiamniungan 2026, Tsukian Lamheing. The event was followed by ‘Strings and Voices’ performances featuring the DGP Band, Band of Brothers (32 Assam Rifles, Noklak), and various local artists.
Earlier, Thang Range Public Organization presented a special presentation of Poi- Poi Dong-Dong which is a traditional musical instrument. The festival programmes were chaired by Er.Ngoh Lam, Thongkoi LS, Tangmong and M.Chongti Khim. T. Lunshian Lam presented a song on One Movement in Time while the invocation was pronounced by Pastor Langshen K. The welcome addressed was delivered by Executive Chairman KTC, Talamong Khiamniungan while a word of gratitude was presented by Thiamo, Convenor Planning Committee.
