The Switzerland of India, Nagaland, is an unrivaled illustration of harmony in diversity. The wonderful land of more than 89 languages and dialects, 16 major tribes, and several sub-tribes is a cultural feast. And in 2000, the State Tourism and Arts and Culture Department, Government of Nagaland, began the Hornbill Festival (named after the Hornbill bird, which the Nagas regard as sacred) to honor this culture and history. We will discuss reasons to attend the hornbill festival in Nagaland.
Image Source: Wikimedia
The celebration, which runs from December 1 to December 10, exudes an air of regal antiquity. Everyone’s heart is captured by the festive atmosphere, spectacular ornaments, and majestic display of colors. The 10 km from Kohima Kisan village becomes the main attraction. Here are 10 reasons to attend the hornbill festival in Nagaland as you prepare to lead an amazing and exciting life for ten days.
Image Source: Wikimedia
Reasons To Attend The Hornbill Festival in Nagaland
1. LET TRUE ART INDULGE YOU
The people of the sacred country are artists at birth. The 16 distinct tribes are vastly different from one another, but they are bound together by threads of affection and camaraderie. Unaffected by modernization, tribal music extends a kind welcome to all. Each tribe’s culture is described in its catchy folk melodies, and each tribe’s dance and traditional clothing are an exact recreation of its customs and traditions. The drum rolls and displays of many artistic mediums bring forth the event’s genuine energy. You should also be familiar with Tamil Nadu’s festivals. The Hornbill Festival in Nagaland is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take part in a vibrant ritual.
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2. A PERPETUAL ADVENTURE
The Hornbill Festival is a haven for nonstop excitement and pleasure. The tourists are always in for surprises with the varied styles of art. All fitness enthusiasts are invited to the Hornbill Half Marathon, the Great Hornbill Run, the Cycle Rally, and the Car Rally. Aside from that, bikers of all ages participate with fervor in the mountain biking tournament. Naga Chilli Eating Completion is another unusual competition in which competitors must consume the most chilies possible in the span of 20 seconds. The hottest chili in the world is the Bhut Jolakia, which is grown in Nagaland. Pork-eating competitions are another such event where you are free to consume as much food as you like.
3. A DELICACY FOR THE TASTE BUDS
The 10 days not only honor culture but also provide visitors with delectable cuisines. Every tribe has a unique method of making delicacies. It is a must-have experience for all foodies and offers a wide variety of options. There is a distinct scent to the succulent seafood, beef, and pork prepared in Naga style. Despite the fact that chilies get all the attention, there is still much more to come. Zutho (Rice Beer), traditionally consumed by Angami Nagas and poured from Mithun horns, is one thing you should never miss. Read about festivals from around the world as well.
4. GET THE IDEAL FRAME
Colorful spears, paired with colored goat’s hair decorations, and royally embellished headdresses with boar’s teeth and hornbill feathers. Nothing could be more ideal for a photographer’s optics. Tribes from the seven sister states move into the Hornbill Festival, which develops into a center for culture. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to capture the essence of this vibrant atmosphere.
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5. THE STRENGTH TESTING
Throughout the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, Nagas demonstrate their courage and fortitude via a variety of activities, and witnessing these bold deeds is quite exciting. The main draws are horseback riding, naga wrestling, greasy bamboo pole climbing, stilt walking, and traditional archery. The air is filled with raucous applause and victorious pleasure. Visitors can observe traditional combat tactics and martial arts expertise.
6. UNDERSTAND THE CULTURE
The guests have the chance to learn more about Naga culture thanks to a beautiful depiction of tribal life. Warriors from the Konyak, Chung, and Sumi tribes perform their ancient battle dances as the gathering reminisces about the time when the Nagas were engaged in conquest and warfare. As a symbol of triumph and as a warrior’s reward from the battlefield, the Konyak tribes engaged in headhunting, which is today illegal. The Morungs have a unique story.
7. HORNBILL ROCK CONCERT
One of the best music events in the nation, the Rock concert at Indira Gandhi Stadium is another major draw. The night sky becomes energized with the performances of numerous national and international bands. The concert, which is a haven for music fans, also serves as a stage for exceptional bands. After a close race, the winner is determined.
8. KOHIMA NIGHT BAZAAR
The Kohima Night Bazaar brightens the holiday spirit. With a variety of rides, fast food, live music, entertaining activities, and many other attractions, the market becomes a draw for visitors. Kohima market is a crucial component of the Hornbill Festival even though it is a few kilometers away from the festival grounds. During the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, you must not miss this. Nagaland is a stunning location with much more to see than just festivals.
From the unique village of Longwa in Mon, where people have been granted dual citizenship of Myanmar and India since the border passes through the middle of the village, to the War Cemetery located at the Dimapur and Imphal road junction with more than 1400 graves of officers who sacrificed their lives in the Battle of Kohima. Kohima is 74 kilometers from Dimapur, the location of the closest airport.
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9. THE LARGE CELEBRATION
The Hornbill Festival’s last day develops into a lavish event with upbeat acts. The day’s fatigue is replaced with loud war cries and a lot of shooting as the sun begins to slant. It makes you want to travel back in time as drumming and fake combat do. The ten-day event comes to an end with bonfires, one in the middle and one for each tribe to dance around. Among the most entertaining sights to see during the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland.
10. ENDLESS SHOPPING
A huge selection of handicrafts, artwork, paintings, and wood carvings is available for purchase to visitors. The locally produced goods are a lovely representation of Nagaland’s culture. Multicolored bead necklaces have a vintage yet modern appearance. Read about India’s natural beauties as well.
These are the 10 reasons to attend the hornbill festival in Nagaland. Kindly share and do post your comments.
