18 cultural troupes perform at Kisama

DIMAPUR, DECEMBER 8 (MExN): The eighth day of the 25th Hornbill Festival 2024 unfolded as a vibrant celebration of Nagaland’s cultural heritage. Held at the Main Arena in Kisama, Kohima, on December 8, 2024, the event brought together 18 cultural troupes who performed traditional songs, dances, and demonstrations, vividly showcasing the diverse traditions of Nagaland’s tribes.

Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, attended the morning session as the Honoured Guest. He was joined by Minister for Roads & Bridges, G. Kaito Aye, who served as the host, along with Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, Advisor for School Education and SCERT, Chairperson Awan Konyak, and Abu Metha, Advisor to the Chief Minister and Chairman of IDAN.
The afternoon session featured the Additional Secretary & Financial Advisor from the Ministry of Textiles as the Honoured Guest. Minister for Housing and Mechanical Engineering, P. Bashangmongba Chang, hosted the programme, with Advisor NRE, NSDMA Z. Nyusietho Nyuthe, and NEPED Chairman Subongmeren co-hosting. Nazneen Banu, Commander Works Engineer (CWE) from the Military Engineer Services under the Ministry of Defense, was also present, lending further significance to the event.

Throughout the day, the performances brought the rich traditions of Nagaland’s tribes to life. Cultural troupes presented an array of folk songs, dances, and traditional practices that resonated with the audience. From rice-pounding songs to ceremonial log drum pulling, and from lullabies to post-war dances, each performance was a vivid expression of the tribes’ unique identities. Traditions such as tiger hunting, fire-making rituals, and depictions of agricultural practices highlighted the connection between the people and their environment. The presentation of tribal games and commemorative performances further underscored the depth and diversity of Nagaland’s cultural heritage.