The 26th Hornbill Festival, Nagaland’s biggest annual cultural event, was inaugurated on Monday at the Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, with Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio welcoming six partner countries and formally opening the ten-day celebration. The ceremony began with a prayer by Most Rev Dr James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, while 87-year-old Tomwang from Longwa village in Mon district delivered the traditional blessings.
Rio, who was the host of the programme, told the gathering that the Unity Plaza at Kisama represented the oneness of the Naga people and their shared hope for a peaceful and prosperous future. He said the festival was not merely a cultural showcase but an expression of the State’s collective identity.
The Chief Minister said Nagaland was honoured to host Austria, Malta, France, Ireland, the United Kingdom and Switzerland as partner countries for this year’s edition, and welcomed Arunachal Pradesh as the partner state.
He informed that the festival had expanded beyond Kisama, with major events planned across six districts, including Mon. While acknowledging challenges in connectivity and infrastructure, Rio apologized for any inconveniences and assured visitors of the State’s commitment to providing a memorable experience. He urged tourists to explore Nagaland widely and become ambassadors of the State.
Nagaland Governor and Governor of Manipur Ajay Kumar Bhalla, who declared the festival open said the Hornbill Festival stood as a tribute to Naga cultural heritage and had placed the State prominently on national and global cultural platforms. He described the festival as a driver of tourism, entrepreneurship and cultural exchange. Stressing the need for sustainable tourism practices, he said Nagaland’s ecological sensitivity demanded responsible engagement from all stakeholders.
International partners shared their messages during the event.
French Ambassador, Thierry Mathou said France’s participation reflected the strengthening India–France relationship and noted that the French embassy was exploring collaboration with Nagaland in agribusiness, high-technology, education and tourism. He said the French delegation included artistes such as the reggae-rock group Roots Zumbi.
Ireland’s Ambassador, Kevin Kelly said the festival symbolised cultural resilience and identity. Drawing parallels between Irish and Naga cultural traditions, he said Ireland aimed to strengthen cooperation in education, tourism, people-to-people exchange and sports. He said the Irish delegation included historian Jane Ohlmeyer, former footballer Terry Phelan and the Irish group Bowen.
Swiss Ambassador, Maya Tissafi said the Hornbill Festival demonstrated the diversity and harmony of the Naga people and served as a bridge between nations. She said Switzerland hoped to expand cooperation in skills development, cultural exchange, sustainable tourism and innovation rooted in indigenous knowledge.
Austrian Trade Commissioner, Hans-Jörg Hörtnagl said the terrain of Nagaland reminded him of Austria. Highlighting Austria’s strengths in sustainable tourism, green technology and mountain safety, he said his delegation comprised market leaders in cable cars, robotics and agricultural irrigation. He extended an invitation to the Chief Minister to lead a business delegation to Austria.
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British Deputy High Commissioner, Dr. Andrew Fleming recalled the UK’s longstanding association with the festival, including cultural collaborations and educational initiatives. He said the UK–Nagaland partnership had expanded under the India–UK Vision 2025, and announced that a Scottish musician would perform at this edition. He said the UK was committed to strengthening cooperation in education, skill development, science, technology and the creative economy.
Business Head of Mia by Tanishq, Shyamala Ramanan, said the partnership with Hornbill reflected Nagaland’s celebration of culture, creativity and the evolving role of women in society.
Tourism Minister, Temjen Imna Along, in his vote of thanks, acknowledged the contributions of the 17 tribes, partner countries, government departments, security agencies, performers, media and visitors. He said the State hoped its guests would come to appreciate the resilience and aspirations of the Naga people as they look towards the future.
The Hornbill Festival will continue till December 10 across multiple districts with cultural performances, exhibitions, traditional games, and events aimed at promoting tourism and community participation.
