The Hornbill Festival 2024 marked its sixth day with vibrant performances and cultural showcases that celebrated Nagaland’s diverse heritage.
Cultural troupes from across the state and neighboring regions captivated audiences with traditional dances, songs, and rituals, emphasizing the richness of their shared traditions.
The morning session was hosted by Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) Speaker, Sharingain Longkumer, with A. Panjung Jamir, advisor for Fishery & Aquatic Resources, as co-host. Honored guests included Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati, Governor of Mizoram, and Kedir AWOL Omar, Head of Regional Delegation, South Asia, ICRC, Geneva.
Afternoon session was hosted by deputy chief minister Y Patton, accompanied by S. Keoshu Yimchunger, advisor for Youth Resources & Sports.
Distinguished guests included DG Assam Rifles, Lt. Gen. Vikas Lakhera, and Anshu Manish Khalkho, Director (A&F), NHIDCL.
The day’s performances showcased unique cultural practices and traditions. The Konyak troupe performed the ‘We Pheak Wante Lokpu Hem’ song, honoring warriors and preserving the art of cotton spinning. Ao troupe: Tsüksenba depicted rice pounding, a cultural practice entwined with songs of love and honor.
Lotha troupe: Eramoren Oli Ejon celebrated unity and hard work in paddy farming. The Angami troupe performed Liephie Pfhe, a song of teamwork for jhum cultivation.
Garo: Warping Sika Game, a strength-based game from the Wangala Festival, Sumi: Amalimi Kuphulu celebrated family bonds with festive feasts, Chakhesang: Rekhu Kha, a divine invocation for crop protection, Kuki: Lom Lom, a vibrant social dance symbolizing communal gatherings.
The Zeliang troupe performed Kalang Kathiubo, a demonstration of traditional weaving techniques, Phom: Chingsang Songola, a ritual to protect crops from heavy rains.
Other tribes like Yimkhiung, Rengma, Sangtam, Khiamniungan, and Pochury also performed traditional songs, dances, and games, showcasing their unique cultural identities.