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Kohima, Oct 18 (IANS) The fourth edition of Nagaland’s ‘Autumn Festival’ will be held in New Delhi on October 24-25 as the inaugural edition of the 26th edition of the state’s prestigious Hornbill Festival, officials said here on Saturday.
The Nagaland government’s tourism department, supported by the Union tourism ministry, will organize the two-day fourth edition of the Autumn Festival on October 24 and 25 at the lawns of Nagaland House in New Delhi, a senior official in Kohima said.
He said the upcoming Autumn Festival marks the unveiling of the 26th edition of the prestigious Hornbill Festival, which is held for ten days from December 1 to 10 every year.
Hornbill Festival, which showcases the state’s rich cultural heritage, diverse tribes and traditions. Known as the “Festival of Festivals”, it features cultural performances, tribal handicrafts, indigenous games, local cuisine and more, held at the Kisama Heritage Village.
The Sharad Mahotsav, which is being organized after three successful editions, will be celebrated with new enthusiasm and grandeur this time.
The festival aims to provide a glimpse of the vibrant Hornbill Festival experience to the people of the national capital and surrounding areas, especially for those who are unable to travel to Nagaland, as well as to provide an insight to those interested in witnessing this unique festival firsthand.
Delhi Government Tourism, Art and Culture Minister Kapil Mishra will attend the festival as the chief guest.
According to an official statement, Nagaland Tourism and Higher Education Minister Temjen Imna Along said: “In the last three editions, the Sharad Mahotsav has received an overwhelming response from the people of Delhi and they have embraced the spirit of the festival with great warmth.”
Encouraged by this success and inspired to bring more information about Nagaland to the people of Delhi, he said, “We return this year with the same enthusiasm but enriched with new experiences and offerings.”
The festival also provides an experience and invitation, an opportunity to share a glimpse of Nagaland, the heart of India, and strengthen the cultural bonds that bind us, the Minister said.
Like previous editions, the two-day event will feature a diverse range of Naga brands and artists showcasing the best of cuisine, handicrafts, textiles, art and music, the statement said.
It said the festival will be enlivened by performances from leading artists like Colored Keys, India’s Got Talent’s female band and The Eastery Project.
Participating brands include Made in Nagaland, Kintem, the Sericulture Department featuring the state’s award-winning Eri Silk (also known as Naga Silk), the Department of Horticulture with the state’s fresh seasonal produce, and the Department of Tribal Affairs.
Food stalls will offer a rich selection of traditional Naga cuisine, while local artisans will engage visitors through live weaving and handicraft demonstrations, creating an immersive and experiential atmosphere.
The festival will also feature captivating musical performances by renowned artistes, choirs and bands from the state as well as jewelery and textile presentations, re-imagining Naga products for a global audience.
The first day of the festival is an exclusive, invitation-only event, while the second day is open to all.
Started as a modest festival in 2000, the annual Hornbill Festival has evolved into a landmark cultural showcase in India, celebrating its 26th edition in December this year.
–IANS
SC/And