Nagaland: Hornbill Festival opens with global showcase

The 10-day long Hornbill Festival got off to a colourful start on Monday as the 26th edition of the ‘Festival of Festivals’ was inaugurated at the Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, coinciding with Nagaland’s 63rd Statehood Day.
Governor of Nagaland and Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, the chief host, declared the festival open in the presence of state chief minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio, the host, minister for Tourism and Higher Education Temjen Imna Along, the festival host, representatives of six partner countries- France, Ireland, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Malta and Austria- and State partner Arunachal Pradesh.
Dignitaries, international delegations and thousands of visitors from across India and abroad witnessed the inaugural event.
The inaugural programme began with an invocation by Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, followed by traditional blessings offered by 87-year-old Tomwang of Longwa village, Mon.
Declaring the festival open, Governor Bhalla said the Hornbill Festival stood as a “testament to the rich traditions, vibrant art forms and enduring values of the Naga people”. He described it as a platform that reinforced unity and responsibility to preserve ancestral heritage while promoting tourism, entrepreneurship and cultural exchange.
The Governor emphasised the need for sustainable tourism in view of Nagaland’s ecological sensitivity and urged stakeholders to uphold environmentally conscious practices. He said the festival had empowered youth, artisans and creative sectors and positioned Nagaland more prominently on the global cultural map.
Earlier, delivering the welcome address, Rio said the Unity Plaza at Kisama symbolised “Naga oneness, shared inspiration and collective hope for a peaceful and prosperous future”. He said the festival was not merely an annual celebration but “the spirit of a people”, and expressed honour in hosting Austria, Malta, France, Ireland, the United Kingdom and Switzerland as country partners for Hornbill Festival 2025.
Rio said the State hoped their participation would deepen friendships, strengthen cultural understanding and lay foundations for long-term partnerships. He also extended a warm welcome to Arunachal Pradesh, the partner state for this edition.
The chief minister encouraged visitors to explore Nagaland beyond Kohima and Kisama, stating that major celebrations would also take place across six districts, including Mon.
Acknowledging challenges in infrastructure and connectivity, he apologized for any inconvenience and assured that efforts were being made to ensure a comfortable stay. Visitors were urged to share feedback and to become ambassadors of Nagaland by carrying “a piece of this land” back with them.
French Ambassador Thierry Mathou said France was honoured to be associated with the festival, adding that the partnership reflected the broader growth of France–India relations. He highlighted interest in cooperation in agribusiness, high-tech, tourism and education.
Ireland’s Ambassador Kevin Kelly said the festival resonated globally as an affirmation of identity and creative spirit, noting Ireland’s interest in engagements in tourism, education, people-to-people ties and sports.
Swiss Ambassador Maya Tissafi described the festival as a bridge between generations, communities and nations. She highlighted collaboration in skill development, cultural and educational exchanges and sustainable tourism.
Austrian Trade Commissioner Hans-Jörg Hörtnagl said Nagaland’s landscape reminded him of Austria and highlighted Austria’s leadership in sustainable tourism, mountain technology, robotics, irrigation and green technologies.
British Deputy High Commissioner Dr. Andrew Fleming cited longstanding UK–Hornbill collaborations and highlighted ongoing partnerships in education, skill development, science and the creative economy.
Business Head of Mia by Tanishq, Shyamala Ramanan, said the brand’s partnership reflected Nagaland’s celebration of culture, creativity and the evolving narrative of Indian women.
Delivering the vote of thanks, minister Temjen Imna Along expressed gratitude to the people of Nagaland for showcasing unity at the festival. He thanked the 17 tribes and sub-tribes, partner countries, government departments, performers, security agencies, media and visitors.
The inaugural ceremony concluded with the minister acknowledging all contributors and inviting visitors to enjoy Nagaland’s hospitality and cultural richness throughout the 10-day event.
Later, the governor and chief minister sounded the traditional gong, officially declaring the festival open.