Nagaland: Drum Tao electrifies Hornbill Festival

The Hornbill Music Festival witnessed an immersive display of rhythm and choreography as DRUM TAO, Japan’s internationally acclaimed Taiko performance ensemble, staged a three-day showcase hosted by Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM). The event, which followed their appearances at the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival and performances across Chennai, Bengaluru, Delhi, Jaipur and Kolkata, formed part of the group’s 14-city India tour celebrating India–Japan cultural friendship. The performances in Kohima drew more than 12,000 spectators over three evenings, with audiences responding enthusiastically to the group’s signature blend of high-energy Taiko drumming, precision synchronization and visually rich stagecraft. The company stated that each segment was designed to build towards an intense crescendo, holding the crowd’s attention throughout and earning sustained applause.
The India tour, TKM added, has been curated to highlight the longstanding artistic and cultural ties between the two countries, and to introduce younger Indian audiences to contemporary Japanese performance traditions. The Hornbill Festival leg marked another milestone in this effort, with the ensemble presenting a fast-paced program featuring rhythmic complexity, theatrical movement and dramatic visual elements.
DRUM TAO, founded in 1993 in Oita, Japan, has performed for over 10 million people worldwide. TKM noted that its collaboration with the troupe reflects the brand’s “Mobility for All” philosophy—an approach that extends beyond physical mobility to include the exchange of creativity, ideas and cultural expression.
Through the partnership, the company aims to deepen cultural engagement between Japan and India. Following their Kohima performances, DRUM TAO is scheduled to continue their tour with a show at Greenwood Resort, Guwahati, on December 6, before moving on to other cities in the coming weeks.
TKM informed that updates, behind-the-scenes interactions and ticket information for select public events are available on its official website and social media platforms.