hornbill festival 2023 LIGHTS UP NAGALAND

04 DEC, 2023

Adhya Moona

Photo: HORNBILLFESTIVAL.COM

The Hornbill Festival is an annual cultural festival celebrated in the state of Nagaland. 

WHAT IS THE HORNBILL FESTIVAL?

Photo: HORNBILLFESTIVAL.COM

During the festival, there are folk dances, traditional music, local cuisine, handicraft, art workshops, etc.

what happens in the festival

Photo: HORNBILLFESTIVAL.COM

The festival is held at the heritage village of Kisama, about 12 km from Kohima. 

where is the hornbill festival held?

Photo: HORNBILLFESTIVAL.COM

This festival is celebrated to protect and promote the rich culture of Nagaland and keep alive its age-old traditions.

WHY IS THE FESTIVAL CELEBRATED?

Photo: HORNBILLFESTIVAL.COM

It usually takes place from December 1 to December 10 each year. This year too, it is taking place on the same dates.

when is it celebrated?

Photo: GETTY IMAGES

The festival is named after the hornbill, a bird prominent in Naga folklore and often reflected in the traditional tribal dances and songs performed during the fest.

why is it called hornbill?

Photo: GETTY IMAGES

The festival pays tribute to the hornbill, the most admired and revered bird for the Nagas for its qualities of alertness and grandeur.

HORNBILL, THE MOST REVERED

Photo: HORNBILLFESTIVAL.COM

It is one of the largest indigenous festivals in India, organised by the state government of Nagaland to promote tourism in the state.

significance of the festival

Photo: HORNBILLFESTIVAL.COM 

It provides an insight into the different tribes of Nagaland. Naga Morungs exhibition is also organised during the festival.

VARIOUS TRIBES

Photo: HORNBILLFESTIVAL.COM

The Heritage complex at Hornbill Festival consists of 17 indigenously designed houses, each representing a different tribe. 

WHAT ELSE?

Photo: X/US AMBASSADOR ERIC GARCETTI

US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, attended this vibrant cultural festival. 

who'S WHO IN attendANCE

Photo: X/US AMBASSADOR ERIC GARCETTI

There were delegates from US, UK, Columbia and Germany who attended this festival. Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio was also present at the event. 

others who attended the festival