Sangtam cultural troupe performing Warrior dance (Athrongrü nyichi) at the cultural programme during the 10th day of Hornbill Festival at Naga Heritage Village, Kisama on December 10. (DIPR Photo)
KOHIMA, DECEMBER 10 (MExN): The 26th Hornbill Festival 2025 concluded on Wednesday with a cultural show at the Unity Plaza, Naga Heritage Village, Kisama. The programme was hosted by Nagaland Minister for Women Resource Development and Horticulture Salhoutuonuo Kruse, with Industries and Commerce Advisor Hekani Jakhalu as co-host.
Special guests included Centre Point Group Enterprise Managing Director Larsing L. D. Sawyan, PFRDA Chairman S. Ramann, and senior officials from Indian Oil and other departments.
Cultural troupes from various Naga tribes presented dances, songs and indigenous games reflecting their traditions. Highlights included the Rengma war dance Künyhun; the Sangtam warrior dance Athrongrü Nyichi; the Lotha traditional game Kha-Kina Kha-Khungchanthung Na; and the Konyak coronation song Pong-Win Boa.
The Chakhesang troupe performed Chotali, a procession song, while the Kuki troupe showcased Salu Lap Lam, a men’s hunting dance. Yimkhiung performers presented a folk fusion number blending traditional lyrics with modern elements.
Other performances included the Zeliang Khuigiuna Lin (a lovers’ song), the Garo stone-lifting game Ro’ong Dea followed by the Wangala dance, the Khiamniungan victory dance Poklih Tsuichong, and the Kachari weaving-themed Thaokri Lunai.
The Chang troupe presented Sekmouoneed, a cultivating song, while the Sumi troupe showcased the ritualistic Aghakighilhe (Crow Dance). The Ao dance Ango Kazü, the Tikhir rice-pounding song Ngyong Jüh Shoo Ooh, and the Angami dance Phita (Helim) were also part of the line-up.
The Pochury troupe performed Nanoni Hoha, a celebration of achievement, and the Phom troupe concluded with a thanksgiving folk hymn seeking blessings for the Naga people. The closing event brought the 26th Hornbill Festival to a vibrant finish, celebrating the cultural diversity of Nagaland and neighbouring communities.
