28th October, 2025, New Delhi: The fourth Autumn Festival concluded at Nagaland House in New Delhi on October 25, 2025. The two-day cultural celebration showcased northeastern traditions before the upcoming 26th Hornbill Festival. The Department of Tourism, Government of Nagaland, organized the event in collaboration with the Principal Resident Commissioner’s Office. Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, supported the festival held at 29, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Road.
Delhi Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra inaugurated the festival on October 24. He opened the Artisans’ Corner and traditional stalls. Tribal artisans displayed handmade crafts, Naga attire, and local delicacies. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh graced the opening ceremony. Chavanart Thangsumphant, Ambassador of Thailand to India, attended as honored guest. The gathering included diplomats and senior officials who celebrated Nagaland’s vibrant culture.
Kevin Kelly, Ambassador of Ireland to India, attended as chief guest on the concluding day. Temjen Imna Along, Minister of Tourism and Higher Education, Government of Nagaland, served as chief host. Abu Metha, Adviser to the Chief Minister and Chairman of Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland, co-hosted the event. The festival drew residents and visitors who experienced authentic Naga traditions.
Cultural performances captivated audiences throughout the celebration. The renowned Nagaland Police Mahila Band, featured on India’s Got Talent, delivered mesmerizing performances. Traditional and contemporary artists including Colored Keys, The Eastory Project, Tiatemsu Jamir, and Kiki Longkumer performed. The Sumi Students Union Delhi presented powerful war dances at both ceremonies. Dancers in vibrant tribal regalia portrayed stories through expressive movements. A fashion show featured exquisite handwoven Naga textiles blending heritage with contemporary style.
Minister Along emphasized sustainability as the festival’s cornerstone. Nagaland promotes eco-friendly tourism as an organic, environmentally conscious state. He stated that sustainable tourism represents the state’s unique strength. The minister encouraged young attendees to embrace practices leaving marks beyond lifetimes. The festival featured handicrafts, handloom products, and horticulture displays showcasing Nagaland’s dedication to traditional crafts and environmental stewardship.
Ambassador Kelly expressed profound appreciation for Nagaland’s rich heritage. He drew parallels between Nagaland and Ireland’s natural beauty and cultural pride. Both regions share mountainous landscapes and green terrains. Kelly highlighted historical similarities between Ireland, India, and Nagaland. All three emerged from colonial rule simultaneously, giving their relationship particular depth. He expressed enthusiasm for developing collaborative initiatives between Irish and Naga artists. Culture serves as a fundamental identity component and important diplomatic soft power aspect.
The Autumn Festival demonstrated significant economic potential through cultural tourism. The Hornbill Festival generated ₹200 crore in revenue over ten days in 2024. Minister Along announced efforts to streamline the Inner Line Permit process. Special helpline centers operate at Nagaland Houses in Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati. The digitization of ILP system, fully implemented from January 1, 2025, has processed 26,534 permits. This technological advancement enhances public service delivery while promoting tourism.
Minister Mishra announced plans to expand cultural collaboration significantly. He proposed establishing an annual “Naga Culture Festival” in Delhi from 2026. The minister suggested hosting events at larger venues including Delhi University campuses and Central Park. This expansion ensures broader public participation and cultural exposure. The relationship between Delhi and Nagaland reflects brotherhood and mutual respect. Many Nagaland residents live in Delhi, strengthening bonds between both regions.
The Autumn Festival successfully served as curtain-raiser to the 26th Hornbill Festival scheduled December 1-10, 2025. Kisama Heritage Village will host the celebration featuring all 17 major tribes of Nagaland. The 2024 edition attracted over 100,000 domestic tourists and 5,000 international visitors. Known as the “Festival of Festivals,” the event creates global platforms for cultural exchange. The Hornbill Festival reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Swadeshi and celebration of India’s cultural diversity.
Visitors experienced authentic Naga traditions through multiple sensory experiences. Artisans displayed intricate craftsmanship at dedicated corners throughout the venue. Traditional Naga cuisine offered bold flavors featuring smoked pork, bamboo shoots, and fermented delicacies. Award-winning Eri Silk and fresh seasonal produce showcased the state’s agricultural excellence. The festival demonstrated how tradition illuminates paths forward in modern India.
The Autumn Festival created meaningful connections between diverse cultures. It preserved the unique identity of Naga people while fostering understanding. Cultural exchange builds bridges between communities transcending geographical boundaries. The celebration left indelible marks on all who experienced it.
Traditional drums and contemporary melodies resonated through Nagaland House lawns. Promises of expanded collaboration set the stage for spectacular December celebrations. The world will witness full splendor of Nagaland’s heritage through sustainable and inclusive approaches.
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