Northeast Desk, 26th October: Temjen Imna Along, Nagaland’s Minister for Tourism and Higher Education, has extended a heartfelt appeal to the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation, urging them not to boycott the upcoming Hornbill Festival 2023. This festival holds immense cultural and traditional significance in Nagaland and serves as a unifying event for the entire state.
Addressing the media, Minister Along emphasized his shared identity as a Naga with the people residing in the eastern part of the state. He implored the Eastern Naga people’s organization, along with eastern families, brothers, and sisters, to understand that the Hornbill Festival is a celebration of Naga culture and heritage, intended to showcase their unity and rich traditions. Minister Along encouraged all Nagas from the eastern region to come forward and participate in the festival with enthusiasm and passion.
The Hornbill Festival, observed annually from December 1st to 10th, is one of Nagaland’s most prominent and celebrated cultural events. It serves as a platform for the various tribes and sub-tribes in the state to promote and share their unique cultures. Each tribe’s distinctive traditional ceremonial attire, multi-colored spears, dyed goat’s hair adorning spears and Dao’s, and exotic headgear and ivory armlets are highlights of the festival.
In the past, these items symbolized bravery and were worn by warriors to demonstrate their courage. The Hornbill Festival is not only a time to preserve and showcase Naga heritage but also to foster unity and appreciation for the diverse cultures that make up Nagaland. Minister Along’s appeal emphasizes the significance of the festival in preserving and strengthening the cultural fabric of the state.
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