The much-awaited Autumn Festival 2025, a prelude to the 26th edition of Nagaland’s iconic Hornbill Festival was inaugurated with grandeur and cultural vibrancy at Nagaland House, New Delhi, on October 24. The two-day event, organised by the Department of Tourism, Government of Nagaland, in collaboration with the Office of the Principal Resident Commissioner, Nagaland House, and supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, is being held on October 24 and 25 at 29, Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam Road.
Minister for Tourism, Art and Culture, Government of NCT of Delhi Kapil Mishra, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, while Ambassador of Thailand to India Chavanart Thangsumphant, attended as the Honoured Guest. The event was also attended by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions Dr. Jitendra Singh.
Addressing the gathering, Kapil Mishra lauded Nagaland’s rich culture and warm hospitality, describing the relationship between Delhi and Nagaland as “that of brothers.” He also proposed the idea of hosting an annual cultural festival in collaboration with Delhi Tourism to celebrate Nagaland’s traditions in the national capital.
Minister for Tourism and Higher Education, Temjen Imna Along who served as the Chief Host, extended an open invitation to all to visit Nagaland and witness the famed Hornbill Festival. Interacting with the media earlier, he emphasized that the Hornbill Festival is not just a tribal gathering but a “unique celebration of unity in diversity,” adding that the process for obtaining the Inner Line Permit (ILP) has now been simplified through online access.
Abu Metha, Adviser to the Chief Minister and Chairman of IDAN, served as Co-Host, while Arenla Jamir, Commissioner & Secretary, Tourism Department, also addressed the attendees, highlighting the growing interest and positive response the Autumn Festival has received over the years.
The evening came alive with mesmerizing performances by Naga artists including Tiatemsu & Kiki, Colored Keys, The Eastory Project, and the Mahila Band of India’s Got Talent fame, enthralling guests with a dynamic blend of traditional and contemporary sounds.
Now in its fourth edition, the Autumn Festival continues to serve as a vibrant cultural showcase, building anticipation for the Hornbill Festival while deepening appreciation for Nagaland’s rich heritage among those who have yet to experience it firsthand.
Photo Caption: Kapil Mishra, Minister for Tourism, Art and Culture, Government of NCT Delhi, along with Temjen Imna Along, Minister for Tourism and Higher Education, Government of Nagaland, and other dignitaries inaugurate the Autumn Festival 2025 at Nagaland House, New Delhi on October 24.
