Kohima, Dec 11 (NationPress) The attendance at Nagaland's celebrated Hornbill festival has surged by over 33 percent compared to the previous year, welcoming more than 2.05 lakh visitors from different regions of India and other countries to its silver jubilee edition. An official from Nagaland’s Tourism and Art and Culture department reported that this impressive turnout was recorded at the scenic Naga heritage village, Kisama, from December 1 to December 10, culminating on Tuesday.

Among the total of 2.05 lakh attendees, 2527 were international tourists, 54036 hailed from various parts of India, and the rest were locals from different areas of the state. In comparison, last year saw 1,54,057 visitors at Kisama, located just 12 km from the state capital, Kohima.

Officials noted that this year's Hornbill Festival featured country partners including Japan, the U.S., U.K. (Wales), and Peru, while Sikkim and Telangana were recognized as partner states.

More than 50 cultural troupes from various regions of Nagaland, as well as all eight northeastern states, showcased their rich and diverse cultural heritage.

Nagaland's Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio, expressed gratitude to all participants and stakeholders, stating on X, "The Hornbill Festival is a vibrant celebration of Nagaland's culture. I extend my thanks to all partners, guests, and participants for making the 25th edition truly memorable. I hope you carry a piece of our culture with you and act as our ambassadors."

Nagaland's Tourism Minister and Festival Host, Temjen Imna Along, remarked that the festival embodied the unity and enthusiasm of the state's people and beyond.

He emphasized that the Hornbill Festival has transcended its roots in cultural, tribal, and festive celebrations, evolving into a vital platform for networking and development.

Along also acknowledged the contributions of all state machinery, partner countries and states, visitors, and other key stakeholders who played an essential role in realizing the festival's vision.

Nagaland, home to a population of two million (with 86.5 percent being tribals), comprises 17 tribes, each with its own distinct festivals.

Every recognized tribe from Nagaland participated in the festival, proudly displaying their unique customs, attire, and traditions.

Since its inception in December 1999, the festival serves as a tribute to the magnificent Hornbill bird, which holds significance for the Naga people due to its vigilance and majesty.

In addition to daily performances from numerous cultural troupes across the eight northeastern states, the Hornbill Festival featured various highlights such as the sale of local products, handloom and handicrafts, artworks, horticultural displays, a traditional stone-pulling ceremony, a film festival, a photography exhibition, heritage walks, a children's carnival, the International Hornbill Naga Wrestling event, and indigenous games and sports.

Other notable attractions included local cuisine, a food festival, competitions for the Naga King chili and pineapple eating, a World War II rally, adventure outdoor activities, mountain biking, Dzukou Valley day hikes, a Bamboo Carnival, and a Night Carnival, making this annual celebration truly remarkable.