Nagaland | Dec 1,2025 | Sky Link Times |
Nagaland is fully prepared to host the 26th edition of the iconic Hornbill Festival, beginning Monday at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama, located about 12 km from Kohima. The 10-day celebration, running from December 1 to 10, coincides with Nagaland’s Statehood Day, adding renewed cultural and historic significance to the event.
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Six Partner Countries Join the Celebration
This year’s festival carries a stronger global presence with participation from six Partner Countries —
United Kingdom, France, Austria, Switzerland, Malta and Ireland.
Additionally, Arunachal Pradesh will attend as the Partner State, strengthening cultural ties within the Northeast region.
Named after the hornbill—a revered bird in Naga folklore—the festival unites all 17 major tribes and their sub-tribes. With over 86% of Nagaland’s population belonging to tribal communities (Census 2011), the festival stands as one of India’s strongest symbols of cultural identity.
A Cultural Powerhouse and Tourism Magnet
Popularly hailed as the “Festival of Festivals”, Hornbill has grown into one of India’s biggest cultural tourism events. Thousands of domestic and foreign visitors travel each year to witness traditional dances, folk performances, indigenous sports, ethnic cuisine, artisan craft bazaars and musical concerts.
The event not only preserves ancient tribal practices but also promotes Nagaland as a rising global cultural tourism hub.
Cultural Showcases and Indigenous Sports
A senior Tourism Department official said the festival embodies unity and diversity, offering visitors unmatched cultural immersion. Major attractions this year include:
Naga Morungs and village life exhibitions
Wood carving, weaving, sculpting and craft displays
Herbal medicine stalls and flower shows
Folk music, dance medleys and cultural fusion shows
Fashion events and beauty pageants
Traditional wrestling, archery, log-drum beating
Indigenous games and music concerts featuring local & national artists
These curated experiences collectively represent the soul of Naga life, the official added.
Economic Opportunities and Global Partnerships
Beyond cultural celebration, the Government of Nagaland has planned several industry roundtables, investment discussions and business networking events. The idea is to pair cultural diplomacy with economic development, boosting opportunities in tourism, handicrafts, agriculture, and eco-trade.
Officials believe the festival can serve as a bridge for international partnerships and bring global attention to Nagaland’s growing economic potential.
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Protected Area Permit Relaxation for Foreign Tourists
In a major move to facilitate international tourism, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has approved a temporary relaxation of the Protected Area Permit (PAP) during the festival.
This relaxation, applicable to Nagaland, Mizoram and Manipur under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958, is expected to significantly increase foreign tourist footfall.
A senior Kohima official confirmed that the approval was conveyed to Chief Secretary Sentiyanger Imchen on Saturday. Nagaland had been requesting PAP relaxation for over a year to enhance the festival’s global outreach.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio played a crucial role in securing this move through multiple meetings with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, emphasizing the festival’s importance in showcasing Northeast India internationally.
A Celebration of Unity, Heritage and Future Growth
As Nagaland counts down to the opening day, excitement is widespread across the state. With a rich blend of cultural performances, artistic exhibitions, global partnerships and economic initiatives, the 26th Hornbill Festival is poised to present an unforgettable experience.
The festival reinforces Nagaland’s identity as a land of vibrant traditions, indigenous pride and expanding global connectivity.
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