KOHIMA: Nagaland hosts the highly anticipated Hornbill Festival, a spectacular celebration that brings all 17 tribes of the state together to showcase their vibrant culture, every December. Running from December 1 to 10, this year's festival, themed "Cultural Connect," is grand and rich in traditions, rituals and unity.
The Hornbill Festival is held at the Heritage Village of Kisama, which presents a spectacular cultural extravaganza, including folk dances, songs, indigenous games, and rituals. The festival site is a collection of 17 traditional Morungs (youth dormitories) that offer a glimpse into the distinctiveness of each tribe.
The essence of Nagaland's diverse cultures can be experienced in one place, including interaction with artisans, watching art battles, and experiencing Naga craftsmanship in the Artisans' Corner.
The festival also has more contemporary events such as Naga wrestling, archery, fashion shows, and musical performances in addition to the traditional ones. The Archives Branch and National Archives of India are hosting a special exhibition this year called "Naga-Land & People in Archival Mirror," which provides an engrossing glimpse into the region's history and culture.
A powerful reminder of India's unity in diversity is the Hornbill Festival, which honors the harmonious coexistence of numerous cultures and captures the spirit of the nation.
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