Northeast Desk, 16th September: The widely recognized portrait that has become synonymous with Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival now has a name behind its lens. Dr. Vikramjit Kakati, a Professor and the Director of the Research & Development Cell at Assam Don Bosco University, has been identified as the photographer responsible for the celebrated image.
Captured in 2014, the photograph features a Naga tribesman adorned in intricate traditional attire, including a distinctive feathered headdress. Over the years, the image has been widely circulated in search results and promotional materials for the Hornbill Festival, becoming an emblem of the vibrant cultural event.
Theja Meru, Chairman of the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA) under the Government of Nagaland, acknowledged Dr. Kakati’s contribution in a tweet on September 16, bringing to light the significant yet often-overlooked role photographers play in shaping cultural narratives.
The photograph’s immense popularity underscores the power of visual media in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. Viewed by millions worldwide, it serves as a visual ambassador for Naga culture and the Hornbill Festival, which draws thousands of visitors each year.
Dr. Kakati’s work exemplifies the lasting impact a single photograph can have, transcending its original moment to become an enduring symbol of tradition and celebration.
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