The third edition of the Autumn Festival, a precursor to the landmark 25th Edition of the iconic Hornbill Festival, concluded with grand success at Nagaland House on Sunday, October 20. Organised by Nagaland Tourism in collaboration with the Chief Resident Commissioner of Nagaland House, and with the invaluable support of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, the festival brought Nagaland's rich cultural diversity to life over three vibrant days.
From October 18 to 20, visitors were treated to an immersive experience of Nagaland's finest offerings in food, textiles, handicrafts, art, and music. The festival also showcased an impressive line-up of esteemed artists, local enterprises, and cultural treasures. Notable among them was Kintem, the renowned textile brand, which wowed audiences with a stunning fashion show, reflecting Nagaland’s artistic prowess and deep-rooted traditions.
Union Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Social Justice and Empowerment, Mr. BL Verma, graced the inaugural function along with Ms. Mugdha Sinha, IAS, Director General, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, as Chief Guest, and Mr. Javier Manuel Paulinich Velarde, Ambassador of Peru in India, as the honoured guest for Day 1.
Ms. Mugdha Sinha, IAS, Director General of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, who served as the Chief Guest, in her address, applauded the significant contributions of the northeastern states, saying, “The Hornbill Festival has earned its place as a cherished cultural event, a brand that has come to symbolise the vibrancy of Nagaland. I hope the Autumn Festival gives Delhi’s residents a glimpse of Nagaland's extraordinary handloom, handicraft, and culinary traditions, inspiring many to join us in celebrating the grand 25th Edition of the Hornbill Festival in Kisama, Nagaland.”
Day 2 was graced by Shri Abu Metha, Adviser to the Chief Minister of Nagaland and Chairman IDAN as the Chief Guest who highlighted the history of the Hornbill festival and stressed how the event is not just the state’s flagship event but has become one of India’s biggest and well-known festival across the world. He further stated, “The Autumn Festival is a curtain raiser of the Hornbill Festival and it aspires to reach out to different sections of people in the national capital and other parts of the country to visit the Hornbill Festival.”
Shri Temjen Imna Along, Honourable Minister of Tourism and Higher Education, Government of Nagaland, who was also present, reflected on the cultural unity the festival fosters: “Standing amidst the lively aura of the Autumn Festival, I am reminded of the deep cultural roots that bind our communities. This vibrant prelude to the Hornbill Festival is a testament to our shared heritage and the spirit of unity that defines Nagaland. As we revel in these festivities, let it serve as a joyful prelude to the grand celebration awaiting us at the Hornbill Festival.”
Day 3 was graced by Shri Kumar Banwal, Addl.Secretary, Higher Education, Government of India and Ms. Alison Barrett, Director British Council as the Guest of Honour and Honoured guest respectively.
The three-day event was marked by an array of cultural performances, including traditional dances, wrestling matches, and folk music. Highlights included stirring performances by the DGP Band, the soulful melodies of the Ao Naga Choir, and other artistic expressions that captivated the audience.
With its successful conclusion, the Autumn Festival has once again underscored Nagaland's potential as a thriving destination for art, craft, and culinary enthusiasts. The festival not only celebrated the state's cultural richness but also offered a compelling invitation to the much-anticipated Hornbill Festival, set to take place starting December 1st -10th at the heritage village of Kisama, Nagaland.