Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change and Village Guards, CL John addressees the inaugural day of the 18th Bishu Mini Hornbill Tribal Festival 2026 at Dhansiripar, Chümoukedima, on January 27. (DIPR Photo)
Chümoukedima, January 27 (MExN): The 18th Bishu Mini Hornbill Tribal Festival 2026 began at the Government High School Playground, Dhansiripar, Chümoukedima on January 27, marking the formal opening of Bishu, the post-harvest festival of the Dimasa community.
The two-day festival is being organised by the Dimasa Public Organisation, Nagaland (DOPN) in collaboration with the Nagaland Tourism Department.
Addressing the inaugural programme, Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change and Village Guards, CL John said festivals such as Bishu and the Hornbill Festival serve as important platforms for unity, reconciliation and shared identity among the diverse tribes of Nagaland.
He said that merrymaking, music, dance and food are integral to Bishu, while the festival also provides an opportunity for reconciliation.
Calling upon the people to forgive past differences and move forward together, the Minister emphasised the need to overcome tribalism and factionalism in the interest of peace, unity and economic progress of the State.
Describing the Hornbill Festival as a “festival of unity,” CL John said it brings together all tribes of Nagaland on one platform, fostering mutual respect, understanding and harmony.
He also encouraged the youth to work hard and aspire to leadership roles in various fields, including civil services, science and medicine, for the betterment of society.
Short speeches were delivered by special invitees Zhato Kimho, President, Chakroma Public Organisation; Vikato Achumi, President, Western Sumi Hoho; Thamlong Phom, President, Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Union, Dimapur; and CK Bill Mech, President, Kachari Tribe Council, Nagaland (KTCN).
Earlier, the programme began with a Bishu prayer led by Lemsen Hojai, Vice President, KRPC, followed by a welcome address by Ditush Naben, President, DOPN. Bishu greetings were extended by SK Khemprai, Advisor, KTCN.
Cultural performances by the Doyapur Cultural Troupe and Sumi Cultural Troupe were also presented. The vote of thanks was delivered by Robert Khemprai, General Secretary, DPON.
Minister John also inaugurated exhibition stalls showcasing ethnic cuisine and traditional attire from 10 Dimasa villages, with participation from local entrepreneurs, self-help groups and women of the Dimasa community, the State DIPR reported.
