‘Cultural Mosaic – a celebration of the unique and diverse culture of the various Naga tribes,’ was held on 7th December 2024 at NSF Solidarity Park. It was organised by the Department of Tribal Affairs, on the occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh celebration & IEC Campaign for Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DA-JGUA).
Advisor, Tribal Affairs and Elections, H. Tovihoto Ayemi, who was the Chief Host of the event, thanked the Department of Tribal Affairs for providing a platform to showcase the art and culture of the Nagas. He emphasised on the importance of the Hornbill Festival and its goal for progressing the Naga society towards a harmonious future. Ayemi appreciated the participants for coming together from different corners of Nagaland to showcase their creativity and skills, and also congratulated the winners of the various competitions that were held by the Department of Tribal Affairs. He encouraged everyone to find moments of joy through this festival and cherish them for years to come.
Calling the Naga people ‘warm and hospitable,’ honoured guest, Additional Secretary & Financial Advisor, Ministry of Textiles with additional charge of Ministry of DoNER and Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Government of India, Asit Gopal said it is an immense pleasure and honour to be a part of the iconic Hornbill Festival, which is now being celebrated on a much larger scale, its fame spreading not only nationally but internationally. Stating that the Hornbill Festival represents the unity, the spirit of Nagaland, he expressed hope that the State of Nagaland will grow like its Hornbill Festival. Gopal also emphasised that Nagaland plays an indispensable role in promoting organic agricultural produce in the country.
Addressing the gathering, special guest, Minister, Roads & Bridges, G. Kaito Aye said the Hornbill Festival is a living testament to the power of culture to bridge divides, celebrate humanity and nurture unity through diversity. Stating that the Cultural Mosaic is a reminder of the profound significance of our cultural heritage, he called the tribal communities the torchbearers of wisdom, tradition and sustainability. The theme of the event reflects the display of traditions, language, crafts and practices that form the bedrock of the identity of the Nagas.
Pointing out that each Naga community with its unique story, is a vital thread to the fabric of our shared tradition, Kaito Aye said that it is promising to see the younger generation embracing their roots while instilling fresh energy into the tradition. Through their efforts, the essence of culture not only induces but also evolves, making it relevant to contemporary times. He commended the Department of Tribal Affairs for coming up with initiatives like the cultural celebration which is an opportunity to empowerment, and creates platforms that showcase indigenous knowledge systems, traditions, practices and arts. By including indigenous knowledge into our policies and practices, we not only honour our cultural heritage but also give the way for sustainable development, he added. The Hornbill Festival and events like Culture Mosaic go beyond celebrating the unique identities of tribal communities. He called upon the Nagas to take the opportunity to engage with one another, learn from each other’s experience and build relationships that transcend differences.
The welcome speech was delivered by the Secretary, Tribal Affairs Department, Angelina Tajen. During the programme, invocation was pronounced by Pastor, Kohima Lotha Baptist Church, Zuchonthung Ovung and the national song was presented by Angap Ngapgang. Medophrenuo Miese and Chubatola Imsong enthralled the crowd with popular Naga songs. Vote of thanks was delivered by Director, Tribal Affairs, I. Sino Phom. The formal programme was followed by lighting of bonfire and Hornbill Feast & Music.
