Kohima, Dec 1 (NationPress) Celebrating traditional rituals along with enchanting melodies and dances, the 26th installment of the 'Hornbill Festival' kicked off at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama on Monday, aligning with the 63rd Statehood Day of Nagaland.

The Chief Minister and host for the ten-day event (December 1-10), Neiphiu Rio, remarked that the Hornbill Festival embodies the Nagas' way of life, illustrating their unity and solidarity.

He further stated that it showcases the rich heritage, vibrant traditions, and reverence for their ancestors.

Highlighting the importance of the Unity Plaza at the Naga Heritage Village's Main Arena, Chief Minister Rio expressed that it represents the shared aspirations of the Nagas for a harmonious and prosperous future.

Rio proudly announced the participation of six nations—Austria, Malta, France, Ireland, the UK, and Switzerland—along with Arunachal Pradesh as a partner state for the Hornbill Festival.

Focusing on the Nagas' traditions, CM Rio highlighted how their stories, identity, and customs are interwoven through music, dance, textiles, and the vibrant community spirit.

He pointed out that the Hornbill Festival has evolved from mere festivities into a unique global platform for fostering partnerships and friendships.

Moreover, he shared that the Hornbill Festival is now being celebrated in six districts across the state.

Encouraging visitors, CM Rio urged them to become ambassadors of Nagaland by sharing their experiences with others.

He assured that the people of Nagaland are dedicated to ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience for all.

Nagaland's acting Governor, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, emphasized the festival's role as a celebration of the state's cultural heritage, unity, and identity.

In his address, Governor Bhalla remarked that the Hornbill Festival serves as a testament to Nagaland’s rich traditions, vibrant art forms, and enduring values.

He underlined that the festival reflects the collective resilience of the Naga people and their commitment to preserving their ancestral legacy.

Governor Bhalla also emphasized Nagaland's cultural diversity through various expressions such as dance, folk music, indigenous games, crafts, and cuisines, all of which reach their fullest expression during this festival.

Over the years, he noted that the Hornbill Festival has become a significant platform for promoting tourism, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange.

It has empowered young people and artisans, strengthened the creative sector, and prominently showcased Nagaland on both national and international cultural stages, he stated.

He commended the Nagaland government, tribal organizations, cultural troupes, entrepreneurs, and artisans for their ongoing contributions.

Stressing the importance of sustainable tourism, he addressed Nagaland's ecological sensitivity and urged all stakeholders to adopt environmentally responsible practices.

He encouraged initiatives that respect local cultures and ensure that tourism benefits reach grassroots communities, positioning the festival as a model for balanced and sustainable development.

The Irish Ambassador to India, Kevin Kelly, in his greetings, shared insights on the Ireland-India relationship, including their mutual struggles for freedom and aspirations that inspire each other.

He stated that Nagaland offers the world a festival celebrating identity, resilience, and creative energy.

Hans-Jorg Hortnagl, the Austrian Trade Commissioner, invited Chief Minister Rio to lead a business delegation to Austria for potential partnerships and collaborations.

He mentioned that a delegation from Nagaland attended a startup event in Vienna.

Debanjan Chakrabarti, Director of the British Council, spoke about the enduring ties between Nagaland and the United Kingdom.

He expressed hopes for deeper collaborations in business, trade, education, research, and science and technology.

The Swiss Ambassador to India, Maya Tissafi, spoke about the rich traditions of the Naga people, highlighting how this festival unites tribes, families, visitors, and friends from all over India.

Ambassador Maya explained that the festival acts as a bridge among generations, communities, and nations.

She noted the longstanding partnership between Switzerland and India, rooted in innovation and interpersonal connections.

She praised the creativity and talent of Naga artists and stated that their performances are profoundly inspiring.

The festival, she added, reminds us of the values of diversity, with the unity displayed across tribes and communities sending a message of peace that resonates far beyond Nagaland.

In his greetings, Thierry Mathou, the French Ambassador to India, mentioned that the relationship between France and India has significantly expanded under current leadership.

He expressed France's eagerness to further collaborate with India and Nagaland in areas such as IT, education, tourism, and music.

Bishop of Kohima, Reverend James Thoppil, delivered the invocation, followed by traditional blessings from Tomwang, an 87-year-old elder from Longwa village. State Minister for Tourism and Higher Education and Festival Host, Temjen Imna Along, expressed gratitude to the people of Nagaland for their unwavering resilience in showcasing their rich culture and heritage to the world.

The Hornbill Festival represents not only a celebration of culture and identity but also a festival of unity and togetherness among the Naga community, the Minister added.

The 26th Hornbill Festival in 2025 will continue to honor Nagaland's rich cultural diversity, heritage, and artistic traditions.