The third day of the 10-day Hornbill Festival 2025 unfolded in full vibrancy on Wednesday at the Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, where 18 troupes representing various Naga communities enthralled visitors with diverse and striking performances.
Following tradition, the cultural show was hosted by Deputy Chief Minister and Minister-in-charge of Home and Border Affairs Yanthungo Patton, and co-hosted by Advisor for Food and Civil Supplies and Legal Metrology K. Tokugha Sukhalu. Among the distinguished guests were the Ambassador of Bhutan, Consul General Jigme Thinlye Namgyal, Air Marshal Surat Singh, Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Air Command, Indian Air Force, Lt. Gen. Mohit Wadhwa, GOC 101 Area, Simon Lee Broughton, Founding Editor of Songlines, and several other dignitaries.
Tourism Department officials said the day brought forth a rich display of traditional dances and folk expressions that highlighted the unique identity and heritage of Naga tribes. The Zeliang troupe performed Akoina Lin, a spirited folk dance presented during large gatherings, especially by the youth. The performance celebrated merrymaking, drawing comparisons between the dancers and falcons and butterflies.
The Yimkhiung Cultural Troupe presented Kha Kiaklak Rhimo, followed by the Tikhar troupe’s Tainang Jong Paihi Ai, a women’s folk dance performed during major festivals to celebrate praise, hospitality and the sharing of premium wine.
The Sumi troupe showcased Akikiti, a traditional kick-fighting sport performed in a circular ring. Practised by young boys in the morung, the sport emphasises strength, fitness and self-defence, and traditionally features in festivals such as Tuluni, Ahuna and Tixini. Cultural troupes from the Sangtam, Rengma, Tseminyu, Pochury, Phom, Lotha, Kuki, Angami, Kachari, Garo, Chang, Chakhesang, Ao and Konyak communities also presented a variety of traditional performances.
Officials said the third day of the Hornbill Festival offered visitors an immersive journey through the cultural richness, traditions and storytelling heritage of the Naga tribes.
At the inaugural ceremony on Monday (December 1) evening, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, host of the 10-day festival, said the Hornbill Festival reflects the Nagas’ way of life and symbolizes unity and oneness. He said it celebrates the community’s rich legacy, living traditions and reverence for their ancestors.
More than 86 per cent of Nagaland’s two-million population (2011 Census) belongs to tribal communities. The state is home to 17 major tribes and numerous sub-tribes, each known for distinctive cultural practices, traditional attire, music and customs.
Six countries — Austria, France, Ireland, Malta, Switzerland and the United Kingdom — are partner countries for this year’s 26th edition of the festival, aimed at reinforcing regional cooperation. Arunachal Pradesh is the state partner.
(IANS)
