Hornbill Fest gets off to colourful start in Nagaland

Kohima: The 10-day Hornbill Festival of Nagaland got off to a spectacular start with the beating of Naga gongs and log drums, traditional war cry and gunshots echoing the picturesque Naga Heritage village, Kisama.Hornbill Festival, an annual tourism promotional event of the state government coined as the Festival of Festivals, is the coming together of the 18 major tribes and other sub-tribes of Nagaland showcasing the rich culture and tradition of the Nagas.The major attraction of Day 1 of the festival was the 47 Konyak boys, aged below 15 years from Ukha village of Mon district, dressed in traditional attire beating the Naga log drum amid the traditional gunshots by their elders.Germany, Colombia and the USA, which are the three foreign partners of this year’s festival, have brought their cultural troupes and rock bands.Speaking on the occasion, US Ambassador Eric Garcetti, British High Commissioner Alex Ellis, Colombia Ambassador Dr Victor Echeverri Jaramillo and German Consul General Barbara Voss expressed their happiness to be part of the festival.Nagaland governor La Ganesan, who was the chief host of the festival, welcomed the foreign diplomats and visitors.“It is a celebration that not only showcases the rich mix of our Naga heritage, but also embodies the spirit of unity in diversity,” he said.Stating that the festival is more than just a showcase of the rich Naga culture, the governor said it is an open invitation to the world, welcoming all to immerse themselves in the warm embrace of Naga hospitality, to witness the warriors dance, to hear the ancient folk songs resonate, and to gaze upon the intricate weaves of our traditional attire.“The Hornbill Festival is not just a convergence of various artistic expressions; it is a testament to the living traditions and memories of our people, kept alive through the pulsating beats of log drums, the lyrical tunes of folk singers, and the intricate footwork of our dancers,” he said.As the host of the festival,CM Neiphiu Rio said the 24th edition of the Hornbill Festival offers more than just a visual spectacle. “It provides a closer understanding of the people, offering a ringside view of this elusive land, its inhabitants, and their culture,” he said. PTI

Naga Chaithanya's 'Dhootha' screened at the 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI)

Naga Chaitanya is set for the release of his web series Dhootha, a supernatural suspense thriller. Directed by Vikram K Kumar, the series stars Naga Chaitanya and Parvathy Thiruvothu in lead roles. The first episode premiered at the 54th International Film Festival of India and will be available on Amazon Prime from December 1. The series marks the streaming debut of Naga Chaitanya and Parvathy Thiruvothu's entry into Telugu cinema. Dhootha promises to captivate viewers with its unpredictable and intense storyline.

Nagaland celebrates statehood day; CM Neiphiu Rio calls for early solution of Naga political issue

Neiphiu Rio, the Chief Minister of Nagaland, reiterated his government's commitment to facilitate a peaceful resolution of the Naga political issue on the occasion of Nagaland's 61st Statehood Day. He called for unity among Naga political groups, the Indian government, and other stakeholders to resolve their differences. Rio highlighted the need for development in the Eastern Nagaland region and assured that both the central and state governments are committed to addressing the development disparities. He also mentioned significant developments such as the inauguration of NIMSR, the passing of the Nagaland Municipal Act, and efforts to integrate emerging technologies in agriculture. Rio emphasized the launch of the 'War on Drugs' and invited the Church and civil society organizations to join the fight against drugs. Additionally, he stressed the importance of broad-based economic growth, investment in human resource development, and released the Nagaland Disaster Reduction Road Map.

Festival in December 2023: Check the complete list of fasts and festivals

December brings a soothing winter season after a month of fasts and festivals. As people relax, they should take care of their health due to the high AQI level in Delhi/NCR. The month starts with Kaal Bhairav Jayanti, dedicated to worshiping Lord Kaal Bhairav. The first week also includes Utpanna Ekadashi, Pradosh Vrat, Masik Shivratri, and Margashirsha Amavasya. In the second week, Dhanu Sankranti and Vinayak Chaturthi will be celebrated. Vivah Panchami marks the auspicious marriage of Lord Ram and Goddess Sita. In the last two weeks, Gita Jayanti, Vaikauntha Ekadashi, Hanuman Jayanti, Dattatreya Jayanti, and Annapurna Jayanti will be observed. The month ends with the celebration of Christmas, Mandala Pooja, and Sanksahti Chaturthi.