Proclaimed as the ‘Festival of Festivals,’ the Hornbill Festival of Nagaland is a testament of diversity, harmony and solidarity. The celebrations continue for 10 days. Tourists come together to experience the best of Naga hospitality in a fine blend of culture, colours and communities. Here are the top five reasons why you should be attending the Hornbill Festival this year.
Food: Nothing compares the tantalising aroma of pork sizzling on an open flame or bamboo shoots smoked with ghost pepper. Offering some of the most delectable dishes, the festival caters to varied palates. From home-cooked food to tasting new foods and flavours, these delicacies shouldn’t be missed.
Smoked Pork. Image courtesy: Pan Cuisine blog
Music: Quite avidly talked about, the music scene in the Northeast India is unlike anywhere else. The best of musicians and bands descend upon Nagaland to perform their hearts out every evening during the festival. A delight for audiophiles, there is an amazing lineup of artists that are gearing up to give the crowds a truly incredible experience. And don’t forget the soulful tunes of the Naga folk music that has always been an integral part of the festival.
Tetseo sisters. Image courtesy: Sinlung
Frivolity: Night Bazaar, several food-eating contests – including the pork fat and King Chilly eating competition – the Rock Festival, various stalls, Adventure Rally, sights, sounds, smells and vibes, everything has a sense of frivolity, frolic and merriment. Celebrating camaraderie, joy and ties that bind, the Hornbill Festival isn’t bereft of the element of fun. Each day, each event is peppered with activities, making one eagerly wait for each new day during the festival. It is a stellar portrayal of the passionate spirit of the Nagas.
Night bazaar at Hornbill Festival. Image courtesy: Holidify
Magnanimity: The Hornbill Festival isn’t just a celebration. It is a form of reverence to the Hornbill, the bird that is important to the Nagas. It is also a commemoration of their tireless toil and an effort to bring all the indigenous tribes together. This festival holds its significance and emergence quite scared. The magnanimity of the people of Nagaland is reflected through their hospitality and spirit of inclusion. This year they have extended their care towards the environment by making the festival a No Plastic Zone.
People: It is the people that make the Hornbill Festival the celebration that it has become. It brings together individuals coming from different corners of the world and gathering for a week. The locality becomes alive with the energy and enthusiasm of the crowds. One must visit the Hornbill Festival not only to witness the best of cultures and eat cuisines, but also to meet and greet some of the most diverse cultures.
Image courtesy: tripsavvy.com
Antara khaund
Dubbed as the 'go to girl', Antara swears by three things, Fashion, Food and France. She calls herself a small-town girl, with big dreams. The 18-year old is a Nutella addict and a rooted feminist. She strongly believes in the circle of life and hard work.
