Hornbill Festival 2024 in Nagaland Draws Over 1.73 Lakh Attendees

The Hornbill Festival in Nagaland this year has recorded an impressive turnout with more than 1.73 lakh attendees. Among these 2,375 were international visitors which is a remarkable feat! Held every year at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama, the festival is one of the prime attractions of India which celebrated its 25th edition in 2024. This also marks a major hike from last year's attendance of 1,54,057. The colourful festival is organised every year from December 1 and attracts visitors from across the globe. The Hornbill Festival also is also showcases the traditions and ethnic diversity of Nagaland, offering a window into the lives of its 18 indigenous tribes. Through a variety of cultural performances, traditional games, and the distinct flavors of Naga cuisine, the festival creates a platform for the celebration of the state’s cultural richness. The event was inaugurated with much fanfare, featuring the symbolic beating of the Naga gong by Governor La Ganesan and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, accompanied by representatives from partner countries such as the UK, Wales, Peru, the USA, Japan, and Indian state partners Telangana and Sikkim. The festival’s success is attributed to its cultural connect, as presented by the Department of Art and Culture, which brought together performances by all 18 Naga tribes. These performances not only highlight the state’s unique cultural practices but also promote a sense of unity and pride among the Naga people.