1. India’s Union Health Ministry closely monitors the H9N2 avian influenza outbreak in northern China.
2. Assures low risk to India from reported avian influenza cases and respiratory illness clusters.
3. Prepared for any public health exigency, adopting a One Health approach and strengthening infrastructure.
Kohima, Nov 24: Nagaland is set to host the much-anticipated Hornbill Festival, a vibrant 10-day celebration of the culture, heritage, and traditions of the state’s 16 major tribes. Taking place in the picturesque heritage village of Kisama, just 12 kilometers from the capital city of Kohima, this festival has become synonymous with a dazzling display of colorful costumes, rhythmic performances, and musical storytelling against the backdrop of the breathtaking mountainous terrain.
Originating in the year 2000, the Hornbill Festival derives its name from the hornbill, a bird that holds immense cultural significance in Naga folklore and ritual, symbolizing qualities such as fidelity, beauty, and grace.
Beyond its cultural significance, the festival is a comprehensive showcase featuring an exhibition of crafts and handloom products, as well as a food festival highlighting the diverse and delectable Naga cuisine.
The 24th edition of the festival promises to be even more exhilarating, introducing new elements such as a wrestling championship organized in collaboration with the Naga Wrestling Association, scheduled for December 4 at the vibrant Chiechama grounds.
Additionally, there will be a solo and group dance competition presented by the Department of Women Resource Development at Hortiscape in Kasima village on December 8 and 9. Embracing modern trends, the festival will also host a vlogging contest organized by the Department of Information and Public Relations, inviting vloggers from around the world to capture the essence of the festival throughout its duration.
Excitement for the upcoming festivities is palpable, as highlighted by Nagaland Tourism’s post on social media platform X, formerly Twitter, where they share, “The air is abuzz with excitement as organizers diligently orchestrate events, from traditional dance performances to indigenous crafts exhibitions.”
Step into a world where tradition meets contemporary at the Hornbill Festival!
Join us on a cultural extravaganza showcasing the Nagaland's rich heritage & culture. Experience the electrifying performances of indigenous games, captivating dances, and modern music that will… pic.twitter.com/Wv7pPu9EKD
— nagalandtourism (@tourismdeptgon) November 23, 2023
Notably, cultural centers known as Morung are undergoing a lively transformation to restore them to their traditional splendour, serving as immersive displays of Naga heritage during the celebrations.
Also Read: Government Monitors China’s H9N2 Outbreak and Respiratory Illness Surge, Assures Low Risk to India
Nchumbemo Lotha, Secretary of Tourism in Nagaland, elaborates on the uniqueness of the festival, stating, “We have 16 districts and 17 tribes in the State, and each is distinct from the other. December 1 is Nagaland Statehood Day, and that’s why the festival begins on that day and goes on for 10 days. We will have a formal event for the commencement.”
Lotha outlines the daily schedule, with mornings dedicated to cultural and traditional events and evenings filled with musical performances. The festival’s musical lineup includes artists not only from the local scene but also from Bolivia, Korea, Germany, and Israel.
Nagaland, often referred to as the “land of festivals,” takes great pride in the Hornbill Festival, often called the “festival of festivals.” In 2022, the festival witnessed a significant turnout, with 1,026 foreign and 48,413 domestic tourists, along with 90,860 local visitors, creating a grand total footfall of 1,40,299. Anticipating an even larger attendance this year, officials are gearing up for a footfall exceeding two lakh.
In preparation for the influx of tourists, Deputy Commissioner Abhinav Shivam of Chümoukedima conducted a thorough inspection of the Dimapur bypass via Khatkathi on the four-lane stretch between Dimapur and Kohima NH-29 on November 15, ensuring the safety of visitors who will soon flock to the mountain state to partake in the festivities.
As the Hornbill Festival approaches, Nagaland eagerly awaits the convergence of diverse cultures and the resounding celebration of its rich heritage against the backdrop of its breathtaking landscapes.
