NAGALAND: 22nd Hornbill Festival gets colourful start at Kisana Naga Heritage Village

KOHIMA: The 22nd Hornbill Festival of Nagaland got to a colourful starts on December 1 at Kisama Naga Heritage village.

The festival started with traditional blessings by K Lakiumong, Head GB of Sangphur and Festival blessings by Mannyem Wangnao of Longwa village.

Governor Professor Jagdish Mukhi was the chief guest on the occasion and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio the chief host while Advisor for Tourism Khehovi Yepthomi was the festival host.

Ambassador of Israel to India, Naor Gilon in his speech as the guest of Honour said that Hornbill Festival is a very special event. Gilon said being invited to the festival is a reflection of the brotherly relation between India, Israel and Nagaland.

He said Israel and Nagaland have special connection and bond and they shares deep commitment to preservation their ancient culture while encouraging development of the modern culture.

US Counsel Generals Melinda Pavek and Counsel General of Germany Manfred Auster also delivered speeches as guest of honours at the inaugural programme. The event witnessed a musical presentation Flight of the Hornbill by TaFMA.