The two-day Highland Festival 2026 concluded on October 31 at the Public Ground, Kiphire, under the theme “Rooted in Resilience, Rising in Grace.” Held on October 30 and 31, the festival brought together culture, music, tourism, entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment, providing a platform to showcase the district’s rich cultural heritage and local potential. The festival was supported by MLA and Advisor, Home Guards and Civil Defence, Fire and Emergency Services, Relief and Rehabilitation, S. Kiusumew Yimchunger, along with the District Administration, Kiphire, and the Department of Industries and Commerce, Government of Nagaland. The inaugural programme on October 30 was graced by Additional Deputy Commissioner, Kiphire, Longdiba L. Sangtam, as the special guest. In his address, he appreciated Highland Events for organising the initiative to promote art and culture, tourism, entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment. He also highlighted the importance of unity, love and togetherness among the people. According to a press release, Advisor, Highland Events, Khumpile Ayong, in his opening remarks, highlighted the festival’s role in promoting local culture, encouraging entrepreneurship and providing opportunities for young people to showcase their talents. He stated that the initiative aimed to connect cultural traditions with modern opportunities and contribute to the development of Kiphire.
The opening ceremony featured a cultural performance led by Tsarola Y. Sangtam and her crew, while Pastor, Nepali Baptist Church, Kiphire, Dr. Bhem Sapkota, offered the invocation. The first evening featured musical performances by guest artistes, including Leochum V. Thonger, popularly known as Leo Thonger, who performed songs with Visa Roths. Performances by Lenen Jamir and Albert Jingru, along with cultural presentations, added to the celebration. A special screening of The Old Ways, featuring Thsalongse, was also presented. The second day featured cultural events, capacity-building and marketing programmes and a trade show. The capacity-building and marketing programmes were sponsored by the Department of Industries and Commerce, Government of Nagaland, to encourage local entrepreneurship and strengthen business opportunities. The trade show provided a platform for local entrepreneurs and producers to exhibit Kiphire-made products, highlighting the skills, creativity and business potential of the people. YouthNet also facilitated a help desk to provide guidance and information on opportunities available to young people. The second day was graced by S. Tsaseto Sangtam as the special guest.
In his address, he highlighted the tourism potential of Kiphire, referring to destinations such as Zinki River, Singrep Adventure, Mount Saramati and Mimi Cave, along with other scenic locations in the district. He encouraged young people to explore tourism-related opportunities and stressed the importance of proper tour-guide training to develop professional skills and create sustainable livelihood opportunities. The programme also featured a series of cultural and musical performances, including a musical tribute by Tsarola Y. Sangtam and Leo Thonger, a special video presentation titled “Discover Kiphire,” and a dance performance celebrating unity. Musical performances by KL Pamei and Akhrieze further added to the festivities.
The organisers acknowledged the contributions of sponsors, event partners and the creative team, including groomers, choreographers, designers, makeup artists and hairstylists. The successful conduct of the festival was made possible through the support and cooperation of various government departments, institutions, organisations, businesses and individuals. The organisers expressed appreciation to the District Administration, Kiphire; Nagaland State Cooperative Bank; State Bank of India; White Magic (Anar Telecom); Temsuwati Longkumer, Deputy Commissioner, Kiphire; Shangsila Mongzar; Tsatongse Guest House; Fire and Emergency Services; Indian Red Cross Society; Akashvani, All India Radio, Kohima; SP Office, Kiphire; and YouthNet. Other supporters included Eastern Mirror, Star Gazers, Agape Higher Secondary School, Smokypots Restaurant and Cafe, Sunday Mood, Suko Construction, Anar Tours, Kiphire Printing Press, Sculpt Fitness Bouncers and KVSU Volunteers.
The organisers stated that Highland Festival 2026 served as a platform to promote local talent, preserve cultural identity, encourage women’s participation and highlight the tourism and entrepreneurial potential of Kiphire. The two-day festival concluded with a message of unity, cooperation and progress, encouraging the younger generation to take an active role in the cultural and economic development of the district.
