New Delhi/Kohima, Nov 17 (NationPress) The government of Nagaland has officially formed a partnership with the British Council in India, designating the United Kingdom as the country partner for the renowned 10-day Hornbill Festival, scheduled for December 1-10, 2025.

The 26th iteration of the annual 'Hornbill Festival', which aligns with the celebrations of Statehood Day, will take place at the scenic Naga heritage village of Kisama from December 1 to 10, just as it has in previous years.

An official from the Tourism Department revealed that this agreement formalizes the UK's involvement as a significant partner in the upcoming Hornbill Festival.

This partnership enhances the existing collaboration aimed at fostering cultural exchange, nurturing creative talent, and amplifying global recognition of Nagaland's rich cultural heritage.

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and Alison Barrett, Director of the British Council in India, signed the agreement in New Delhi, with Lindy Cameron, the British High Commissioner to India, and senior representatives from both parties present.

As part of this collaboration, the British Council is coordinating with Andrew Fleming, British Deputy High Commissioner in Kolkata, to develop engaging programming for the festival.

Continuing the tradition from previous years, the British Council will be inviting a UK artist to perform at the festival. This year, Scottish artist Ruairidh Maclean (RuMac) is set to take the stage on December 2.

The official emphasized that the festival not only showcases remarkable talent but also provides a vibrant platform for audiences to engage with contemporary UK music.

"For visiting musicians, it's an opportunity to immerse themselves in a region of India with profound musical traditions that feel both familiar and inspiring, fostering lasting friendships, collaborations, and creative bonds along the way," the official stated.

"UK musicians will find it a fantastic opportunity to connect with and learn from a region whose rich musical heritage resonates deeply with their own," the official further added.

During the signing, CM Rio expressed, "Nagaland is privileged to host the United Kingdom as our country partner for this year's Hornbill Festival." He noted that this partnership embodies shared values and a robust commitment to cultural exchange, collaboration, and strengthening people-to-people connections.

CM Rio stated, "The UK's involvement will enhance the festival and open up new avenues for cooperation across culture, tourism, education, and business." He added, "We eagerly anticipate welcoming our friends from the United Kingdom to the Land of Festivals."

Lindy Cameron, British High Commissioner to India, remarked, "The UK takes pride in supporting the magnificent Hornbill Festival once more as a country partner. The profound personal and cultural ties between the UK and India, our living bridge, make this partnership exceptionally significant. Last year, Welsh, Naga, and Khasi artists collaborated at the festival's silver jubilee, and it's wonderful to continue this legacy with Scottish music this year."

Alison Barrett from the British Council stated, "We are thrilled to collaborate with the Nagaland government for Hornbill 2025. This partnership will enable UK artists and experts to appreciate India's remarkable diversity, engage meaningfully with Nagaland's audiences, foster sector dialogue in culture and education, and enhance knowledge-sharing that enriches creative and educational ecosystems."

Before his performance at Hornbill 2025, Scottish artist Ruairidh Maclean (RuMac) shared, "I am excited to perform at the Hornbill Festival this year in a region of India I have yet to explore. I look forward to experiencing the cultural display in Nagaland and bringing a taste of The Highlands of Scotland with me. I hope you enjoy my performance! Slainte!"