Nagaland invites possibilities…
Nagaland is a mountainous state in northeast India. It has diverse indigenous tribes, with festivals and markets showcasing their cultures.
Till now, Nagaland has remained untouched and neglected. There is a fear of insecurity in the minds of the common people about visiting Nagaland (our own people consider it unsafe), and this is a complete misconception.
It is highly possible to increase the number of tourists coming from abroad by Hornbill Festival. Tourism is a whole industry in itself. Therefore, this can prove to be a milestone in the development of Nagaland.
Of course, with the increase in tourism, the business will also increase. Honey & Spices, botanicals, and bamboo products (especially bamboo items traditionally made by tribes, which are beautiful, cheap, and eco-friendly) can be promoted.
In the Sanatan culture, the northeast direction is considered the most auspicious. That is why Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called Northeast India very optimistic for tourism. The central government is continuously running development plans for the seven states of the Northeast.
The Hornbill Festival has its own unique identity
Nagaland is also known as the Land of Festivals. The Hornbill Festival is an international festival in Nagaland. The Hornbill Festival has been organized annually for the past twenty years in Kisama, a protected village located 13 km from the capital Kohima. Hornbill is the bird’s name, which has been drawn and honored by Nagas over the centuries. The importance of this bird is highlighted in numerous songs during the festival.
Extensive preparations are made for this festival, which lasts from December 1 to 10. All the sixteen major tribes of Nagaland and many other sub-tribes are included. The major tribes are Angami, Ao, Chakhesang, Chang, Dimasa Kachari, Khiamningan, Konyak, Lotha, Phom, Pochuri, Rengma, Sangtam, Sumi, Inchungar, Kuki, and Zeliang.
In the year 2021, the Hornbill Festival was inaugurated by Prof Jagdish Mukhi, Hon’ble Governor of Nagaland and Assam. While Nagaland Chief Minister Nipu Rio presided over the function. The traditions, heritage, craftsmanship, food, culture, and folk dance of the tribes of Nagaland are prominently displayed in this festival. Hornbill Festival is an opportunity to spread its fragrance to the rich heritage of tribal traditions of Nagaland. You can enjoy a vast fair and taste their delicious foods during the festival. In addition, you can buy traditionally made items and get a chance to mingle with people in the community. Overall, this festival is a golden opportunity to get a closer look at the people of the Naga tribe and their heritage.
Hornbill festival is held in Kisama village, due to which the government has given the status of heritage village to this village. Actually, Kisama Heritage Village comprises two villages., whose names are Kigwema and Famsa. Every year around three lakh tourists from all over the country and abroad reach Kohima to enjoy the thrill of the Hornbill festival. Kohima, the capital of Nagaland, is situated at an altitude of 1500 meters above sea level. During this, Kohima is also decorated beautifully.
Night carnivals are organized in the city to entertain the tourists. The hills and valleys of the Phek district near Kohima are perfect places for tourism. If you want to relax and enjoy nature, Nagaland calls you with outstretched arms. The climate here is very mild. The lush green forests and mountain peaks bring the beauty of Nagaland to the summit.
Overall, there are many great places to visit in Nagaland for tourists. Including the Khonoma of the 700-year-old Angami tribe, about 20 km from Kohima. The specialty of this village is that surrounded by greenery all around. Every house of this village is made up of each other. Khanoma also has the distinction of being the world’s first green village. The official language of Nagaland is English.
But in the state, tribal languages like Chang, Konyak, Lotha, Sema, Phom, and Rengma have been recognized by the state government. Now people have started understanding and speaking Hindi also. Most of the diet is based on non-vegetarian food, but vegetarian food is also available. There is an abundance of fruits and green vegetables. The Government of India gave the status of a separate state to Nagaland on December 1, 1963. Located seventy-five kilometers away from Kohima’s capital, Dimapur is called the state’s commercial capital.The airport is also in Dimapur itself. In fact, visiting Nagaland is a great experience to see in Northeast India.
In fact, Nagaland is also known for its birds-diversity; hence it is called “The Falcon Capital of the World.” The Hornbill Festival is also named after a bird called Hornbill. The Hornbill bird is a part of the folk tales of Nagaland. Nagaland has also got a different identity for the religion and culture of India. The tribes here are called Bahadur and Jambaj.
Taking off the head of the enemy is a matter of pride. People of each tribe carry traditional homemade weapons for self-defense and warfare. The Lim and Chong tribe dances have been recognized as traditional dances throughout the country. A few years ago, there were many misconceptions among the people of North India regarding the Nagaur land. But the truth is quite different from this.
A few years ago, there were many misconceptions among the people of North India regarding Nagaland. But the truth is quite different from this. The state government also needs to pay more attention to the promotion of the Hornbill Festival. If you plan to visit Northeast India, start your tourism from Nagaland.
Well written and Drafted.. looking forward for more articles.
Regards
Good to know about NAGALAND culture and diversity.