The Department of Tourism, Government of Nagaland, in collaboration with the Forerunners Foundation Nagaland (FFN), will organize a two-day “Hornbill Prelude – Cultural & Folk Music Festival” on November 14 and 15 at the Agri Expo site in Chümoukedima. Addressing the media at the Forest Department Conference Hall, the 26th Hornbill Festival convenor T. Ao Chuba said the event aims to create a vibrant prelude to the main Hornbill Festival, celebrating Nagaland’s rich cultural heritage, traditional sports, music, and fashion, while building excitement ahead of the Hornbill Festival scheduled from December 1 to 10. Themed “Celebrating Roots, Rhythms & Revival,” the festival seeks to preserve folk traditions while encouraging innovation and cultural fusion, and to provide a platform for local artists, artisans, and entrepreneurs to showcase their talents.
According to FFN General Secretary Sentimeren, the festival will begin at 10:30 a.m. with cultural events and continue with evening sessions from 6:00 p.m., featuring a Music and Fashion Extravaganza titled “Rhythms and Runways of Nagaland.” The evening programme will include performances by bands Abdon Mech, Divine Connection, and Hot Pot; duets by Senti and Hopong; and solo acts by Lenen Jamir, Shau Evans, and Nievolu. Tickets, priced at Rs. 200 for two days, will be available both online and offline through www.oncue.in.
For enquiries regarding food stalls 8131957735 and for enquiries regarding cutural competation 8119887553
The event will also feature the “Hall of Fame” segment to honour pioneers and achievers in Nagaland’s music industry, including Alobo Naga, Methaneilie Jütakhrie, and Dr. Neikiesalie (Nicky) Kire, among others. In addition, the “Legacy Runway” fashion showcase will present national and international beauty queens such as Miss Isabella Menin (Miss Grand International 2022), Mrs. Niesa Kolakhe (Mrs. Femme International 2024–25), Arshia Rashid (Femina Miss India Maharashtra 2024), Akshatha Das (Femina Miss India Kerala 2024), and Chanchui Khayi (Femina Miss India Manipur 2024).
Daytime activities will include cultural troupe competitions with a prize of Rs. 1 lakh for the winner and Rs. 30,000 for the runner-up; tug of war (inter-village/open) with Rs. 50,000 and Rs. 20,000; bamboo climbing with Rs. 5,000 per winner; bamboo stilt race with Rs. 15,000 and Rs. 5,000; and a pork eating competition open to both men and women with prizes of Rs. 10,000 and Rs. 5,000. The event will also feature heritage stalls, local crafts, and traditional food, culminating in a cultural bonfire and community feast.
FFN President Imlibenla Wati Neinu expressed optimism for greater participation this year, noting the success of the previous edition and highlighting the festival’s goal of promoting cultural exchange, tourism, and the creative spirit of Nagaland.
Nagaland 2nd Hornbill prelude to be held on Nov 14 and 15
Staff Reporter