Nagaland Governor La Ganesan extended his warm greetings to the people of Nagaland on the occasion of the state’s 62nd Statehood Day, reflecting on its historic journey, achievements, and aspirations for the future.
In a video message on the eve of the Statehood Day, the Governor highlighted the significance of the day when Nagaland began its journey as the 16th state of the Indian Union on December 1, 1963, emphasizing the struggles and challenges faced by the state’s forbearers.
“Their unwavering spirit and determination are testaments to the strength of our people who have worked tirelessly to carve out a unique identity for Nagaland in the vast tapestry of India,” he stated.
Ganesan acknowledged the progress Nagaland has made over six decades, citing significant achievements in education, sports, and community development.
He commended the resilience and adaptability of its citizens, noting how the state has blended tradition with modernity to enrich its cultural heritage.
“Our vibrant festivals and rich cultural expressions stand as a testament to our unity and diversity,” he remarked, celebrating the unique spirit of Nagaland.
While celebrating progress, Ganesan also emphasized the importance of preserving the peace that has been hard-earned. “It is a precious gift that must be preserved with utmost care and responsibility,” he said, urging the people to work towards a society built on mutual respect, understanding, and unity.
He also drew attention to areas requiring focused attention, such as economic development, infrastructure growth, healthcare, and environmental preservation. “Efforts must be intensified to boost sustainable growth and provide opportunities for all, ensuring every Naga enjoys a decent quality of life,” he stressed.
As Nagaland marks the statehood, Ganesan urged all citizens to work collectively towards a brighter future, building on the achievements of the past while addressing present challenges with determination.
LS MP: Commemorating the Statehood Day, Lok Sabha MP Supongmeren Jamir extended warm greetings to the people of Nagaland.
Supongmeren paid tribute to the sacrifices of the state’s pioneering leaders. “The road to our statehood was paved with the sweat and tears of a generation, while the journey forward since then has been fueled with vision, courage, and dedication. We owe our forefathers the nurturing fruits of today and the promise of a brighter tomorrow,” he stated.
Supongmeren called for celebrating this historic milestone by reaffirming a collective commitment to the growth and development of Nagaland, emphasizing values of honesty and integrity passed down from the forefathers.
He further urged all, particularly the youth to align their dreams and aspirations with the collective story of progress and development, as an individual and for the State.
Nagaland welcomes world for 25th Hornbill Festival
Staff Reporter
DIMAPUR, NOV 30 (NPN): The 25th anniversary of the Hornbill Festival has sparked a wave of excitement, attracting tourists from across the globe eager to immerse themselves in Nagaland’s rich cultural heritage.
Dimapur Airport became a bustling gateway as international and domestic visitors arrived to experience the state’s most celebrated event, the “Festival of Festivals.”
Hosts of foreign dignitaries from the United Kingdom, Japan, and the United States of America have already arrived in Nagaland to participate in the much-anticipated 25th edition of the Hornbill Festival. Their participation reaffirms Nagaland’s position as a cultural hub and highlights the Hornbill Festival’s reputation as a global event that fosters connections across borders.
The annual cultural extravaganza, known as the “Festival of Festivals,” draws global attention for its vibrant celebration of Naga heritage and traditions. The presence of international dignitaries underscores the growing international significance of the event, which has evolved into a premier platform for cultural exchange and collaboration.
The Hornbill Festival, scheduled from December 1 to 10 at the Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, promises a grand showcase of the state’s rich cultural diversity, with tribal performances, traditional crafts, cuisines, and modern entertainment on the agenda.
Martin Kasper from Germany, a repeat visitor to the Hornbill Festival, expressed his enthusiasm for the event’s silver jubilee. Attending for the third time after 2007 and 2009, he noted significant improvements in infrastructure and event professionalism.
“It’s amazing to see how the festival has evolved. While modernization is evident, I hope it continues to preserve the authenticity and traditions of the Naga culture,” he said. Kasper, who brought along several friends this time, shared that they were all equally thrilled to experience the vibrant festivities.
A group of first-time visitors from Japan expressed their excitement, describing Nagaland as “a beautiful place with beautiful people.” They emphasized the festival’s reputation for bringing together diverse tribes and communities in celebration.
“We’ve heard so much about this event, and it’s incredible to finally experience it,” one of the tourists remarked.
Three Swiss archaeologists arriving with a unique perspective said they were particularly fascinated by the Naga warrior culture. “We’ve come to study the traditional costumes, dances, and weaponry that reflect the history and identity of the community. The Hornbill Festival provides a rare platform to witness and learn about these aspects of Naga heritage,” one archaeologist explained.
Indian tourists from various states have also flocked to Nagaland, eager to partake in the festival’s silver jubilee celebrations. A newlywed couple from Bangalore shared that their wedding was deliberately timed to coincide with the Hornbill Festival. “We heard about the festival from friends and on social media. We’re so excited to celebrate our honeymoon in Nagaland and be part of such a grand event,” the couple shared.
A large family of 13 from Delhi, who planned their trip months in advance, also expressed their admiration for the hospitality and warmth of Nagaland. A family member working abroad said the trip was a long-awaited opportunity to explore the state. The family’s patriarch lamented the lack of awareness about North East India among mainland Indians but praised the friendly atmosphere they encountered at the airport and in Dimapur.
This year’s Hornbill Festival is set to host participants and dignitaries from the United Kingdom (Wales), the United States, Japan, and Peru, while Indian states such as Sikkim and Telangana join as partners. The festival promises a range of performances, exhibitions, and eco-friendly initiatives.
The festival’s economic significance is immense, with projections of generating over Rs. 200 crore in direct economic input and creating thousands of permanent and semi-permanent jobs. Officials highlighted that much of the event infrastructure is pre-fabricated, ensuring safety and sustainability.
Tourism and Higher Education minister Temjen Imna Along had emphasized the festival’s significance as a unifying event. “This is not just a festival; it’s a focal point for our people and a testament to the spirit of Nagaland. The Hornbill Festival embodies the aspirations and identity of the Naga people,” he said.