The second day of the Chega Gaadi/Lamsim Ngyi-cum-Mini Hornbill Festival 2026 was celebrated at Beikingpuichak, District Headquarters, Peren on October 30, with Minister of Forest, Environment and Climate Change, CL John, attending as the Special Guest. The programme was hosted by Peren Town Council Chairperson, Mireulung Sephe, while President of the Yimkhuing Tribal Council, Throngso Yimkhuing, attended as the Tribal Guest.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by NZPO President, Zandi Domta, followed by the declaration of the festival by Kaidauping Bring. The declaration of Nziangdui/Zeigichang was made by the Special Guest.
Addressing the gathering, CL John extended festival greetings on behalf of his family and the Government of Nagaland and underscored the importance of festivals in fostering unity, mutual understanding and brotherhood among communities. He said such celebrations provide a platform for cultural exchange, emotional and social integration, bringing people together beyond differences of tribe and language.
He observed that the participation of different tribes in the Mini Hornbill Festival reflected the spirit of Naga unity and collective identity. Emphasising the significance of preserving cultural heritage in the face of modernization, he said festivals serve as an important means of safeguarding Naga identity and strengthening social bonds.
He also suggested inviting Zeliangrong communities from other states in future editions to further strengthen unity and solidarity within the community.
Referring to the annual Hornbill Festival in Kohima, which attracts visitors from different parts of the world, he said such celebrations have helped showcase Nagaland’s rich cultural heritage and bring recognition to the state. He appreciated the organisers and participants for their efforts in making the celebration a platform for cultural preservation and unity.
Calling upon the Zeliangrong community to set aside differences, forgive one another and strengthen mutual relationships, he urged the people to embrace the spirit of togetherness and work towards collective progress. He also described Peren District Headquarters as one of the best-planned district headquarters in Nagaland and stressed the need for proper implementation of the master plan and increased tree plantation to promote a greener environment, ecological balance and a healthy climate.
Speaking on behalf of Deputy Chief Minister, TR Zeliang, Peren Town Council Chairperson, Mireulung Sephe, said traditional festivals reflect the rich cultural heritage, identity and unity of communities while reminding people of their responsibility to preserve the wisdom and traditions of their forefathers for future generations.
He stated that modernization and development must go hand in hand with cultural preservation, adding that culture is the foundation of identity, while unity remains the strength of collective progress. He encouraged the younger generation to take pride in their heritage and carry these traditions forward. He further observed that festivals strengthen friendship, harmony and brotherhood among communities and inspire people to work towards a peaceful, united and prosperous Nagaland. He conveyed his wishes for a joyful and memorable celebration.
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President of the Yimkhuing Tribal Council, Throngso Yimkhuing, in his address, said festivals go beyond traditional dances, songs and attire, reflecting the history, identity, values and way of life of a community.
He noted that traditional celebrations bring people together through thanksgiving, purification, feasting and sharing, while strengthening friendship, promoting peace and renewing the commitment to unity.
Highlighting the common cultural roots and social values shared by Naga tribes despite differences in language and customs, he said cultural diversity is not a barrier to unity but one of the greatest strengths of the Naga people. He appreciated the Government of Nagaland for its initiative in bringing communities together through the Hornbill and Mini Hornbill festivals, which have fostered closer cultural and emotional ties among the tribes.
He further stated that extending invitations to one another during important occasions signifies trust, friendship and a willingness to share aspirations and challenges. While acknowledging that misunderstandings and disagreements are part of every society, he stressed that minor differences should not be allowed to weaken relationships built over generations. He called for patience, dialogue, mutual respect and understanding in resolving differences.
Expressing hope that the friendship between the Zeliang and Yimkhuing communities would serve as an example for other Naga tribes, he urged communities to continue reaching out to one another and build lasting relationships based on trust and goodwill.
The celebration featured vibrant cultural presentations by Poilwa Village and the Yimkhuing Tribe, showcasing their distinctive traditional dances, customs and cultural heritage.
The programme was compered by Paukizon, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Liangmai Council Nagaland President, Shilu Nchang.
