With an infrastructural upgrade allotment of Rs.100 crore, the 25th edition of the Hornbill Festival is set to commence from December 1 to 10 at the Naga Heritage Village, Kisama.
Announcing on November 29 at a press conference, Temjen Imna Along, Minister of Tourism and Higher Education minister stated that the Hornbill Festival is a “focal point” for the people of Nagaland playing a crucial role in showcasing the state’s unique identity and aspirations to a global audience. “Nagas of Nagaland stand for a culture that is unique and distinct, and the Hornbill Festival embodies that spirit,” remarked Along. The Minister also informed that the TourIsm department has been alloted at Rs 6.5 crore for this year’s festival.
The press conference addressed the highlights of this year’s festival which will mark 25 years since its inception. The 25th Hornbill festival will host dignitaries and representatives from nations including the United Kingdom (Wales), the United States, Japan, and Peru, along with participation from Indian states like Sikkim and Telangana as partners. Foreign dignitaries and corporate leaders including Central leaders/ officials are also expected to attend, which according to the organisers, will offer opportunities for partnerships and collaborations in arts, culture, and tourism.
The Chief host for the festival will be La Ganesan, Governor of Nagaland, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio as the Host and Temjen Imna Along as the Festival Host. Medo-o Keretsü, Kohima Village Head GB is will be the Tribal Guest for the festival.
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The organisers also announced that the festival will be adapting several eco-friendly measures, including a ban on single-use plastics and distribution of eco-friendly carry bags.
Meanwhile, Abu Metha, Advisor to Chief Minister highlighted the partnership of the “superpowers” with Nagaland, whose participation spanned across multiple verticals, including literature, arts, tourism, corporate social responsibility and various collaboration.
Along also stressed on the economic significance of the event, which is expected to generate a direct economic input of around Rs. 200 crore where he cited that the festival created 8,500 permanent and semi-permanent jobs. The Minister appealed the people of Nagaland to actively participate in the festival, and ensure a grand success stating that the festival belonged to everyone in Nagaland.
A special feature of this year’s festival is the devotional service to be held on December 8 led by the church, which will signifiy a moment of unity and worship for the Naga community.
The official inauguration of the festival will be held on December 1 at 4 pm with ambassadors from partner countries as honoured guests. World-renowned musician Dr AR Rahman will also lead the entertainment segment.
