Nagaland’s 2nd Hornbill prelude opens with high-octane cultural festivity

The festive spirit soared at the Agri-Expo grounds on Friday as the Nagaland 2nd Hornbill Prelude burst into action with vibrant traditional performances, indigenous games and lively cultural showcases—perfectly setting the stage for this year’s Hornbill Festival. The prelude, themed “Celebrating Roots, Rhythms & Revival,” drew an enthusiastic crowd eager to soak in the colours and sounds of Naga heritage.
During the formal inauguration, Forerunners Foundation Nagaland (FFN) general secretary Sentimeren extended a warm welcome to all attendees, acknowledging the host, organisers and supporters. Speaking on behalf of FFN, he said the event celebrates “the unity that binds us together,” adding that the prelude serves as a tribute to the richness and resilience of Naga culture.
Organised by FFN in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Government of Nagaland, and supported by the Ministry of Tourism, the event also drew praise for the Tourism Department under Minister Temjen Imna Along, whose efforts continue to strengthen cultural tourism in the state.
Friday’s line-up offered a colourful blend of activities—from the high-energy tug of war and spirited cultural dance competitions to the ever-popular pork-eating contest, along with a host of fun community games that kept the audience entertained throughout the day.
Emphasising the essence of the prelude, Sentimeren remarked that culture lives not only in grand performances but also “in the everyday ways we come together as a community.” The event grounds became a lively space where visitors cheered for participants, shared laughter and connected through friendly competition.
Organisers expressed appreciation to all partners, volunteers and participants whose dedication has helped make the prelude a much-awaited annual celebration.
The day treated visitors to a colourful mix of traditional and indigenous activities including the lively cultural dance competitions, the crowd-pulling pork-eating contest, and several fun community games such as Tug of war, bamboo stilt race etc.
With festivities set to continue, visitors are encouraged to dive into the cultural mosaic and experience the spirit that makes the Hornbill Festival a true Naga spectacle.