Culture

Nagaland is known in India as the Land of Festivals. The diversity of people and ethnic groups, each with their own culture and heritage, creates a year-long atmosphere of celebrations. In addition, the state celebrates all Christian festivities. Traditional ethnic-related festivals revolve round agriculture, as a vast majority of the population of Nagaland is directly dependent on agriculture. Some of the significant festivals for each major ethnic groups are:

Ethnic groups Festival Celebrated in
Angami Sekrenyi February
Ao Moatsü, Tsüngremong May, August
Chakhesang Tsükhenyie, Sükhrünyie April/May, January
Chang Naknyulüm, Kundanglüm April, July
Dimasa Kachari Bushu Jiba January, April
Khiamniungan Miu,Tsoküm May, October
Konyak Aoleang, Lao-ong Mo April, September
Kuki Mimkut, Chavang Kut January, November
Lotha Tokhü Emong November
Phom Monyiü, Moha, Bongvüm April, May, October
Pochury Yemshe October
Rengma Ngada November
Sangtam Mungmung September
Rongmei Gaan-ngai January
Sümi Ahuna, Tülüni November, July
Yimkhiungrü Metümnyo, Tsungkamniu August, January
Zeliang Hega, Langsimyi/Chaga Gadi and Mileinyi February, October, March

Hornbill Festival

The Hornbill Festival was launched by the Government of Nagaland in December 2000 to promote inter-ethnic interaction and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the state. It takes place at Kisama Heritage Village, about 12 km south of Kohima, and brings together all ethnic groups of Nagaland. The festival aims to revive and showcase Nagaland’s traditions, history, and culture.

Significance and Highlights

Named after the hornbill bird, which holds cultural significance in Naga folklore, the week-long festival is a grand celebration of Naga unity and traditions. It features vibrant performances, traditional crafts, sports, food fairs, and games.

Key attractions include:

  • Traditional arts – paintings, wood carvings, and sculptures
  • Naga Morungs exhibition and arts & crafts sale
  • Food and herbal medicine stalls
  • Cultural performances – songs, dances, and fashion shows
  • Traditional sports – archery, wrestling, and indigenous games
  • Unique competitions – Konyak fire-eating, pork-fat eating, and Naga King Chilli eating contests
  • Music and entertainment – Hornbill National Rock Contest, Hornbill Ball, Choral Panorama, and Northeast India Drum Ensemble
  • Film and literature events– Hornbill Global Film Fest and the Hutton Lectures
  • Motor and vintage car rallies – Hornbill International Motor Rally and WW-II Vintage Car Rally

The Hornbill Festival has gained international recognition and attracts visitors from across India and the world, making it one of the most significant cultural events in Northeast India.