At the Hornbill Carnival Parade in Kohima on December 9. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | December 9
The Kohima Village Youth Organisation (KVYO) in association with Nagaland Tourism and Kohima Chamber of Commerce & Industries (KCCI) organised Hornbill Carnival Parade 2025 from ‘Y’ Junction to Razhü point, Kohima on December 9.
Reuben Gauci, High Commissioner (Ambassador) of Malta to India graced the event as the special guest. He maintained that there are a lot of similarities between Malta and Nagaland, especially in the form of culture.
Gauci described Nagaland as “very very special” to him and expressed high admiration of the land and its people.
KVYO President Er Medozhazo Rutsa said “Malta and Nagaland, though located in very different regions, share several meaningful similarities,” adding that both have strong community-based societies, where family ties, village/church life, and collective responsibility play a central role in daily life.
Both places place a high value on Christian faith and traditions, with churches and religious festivals forming an important part of social and cultural life, he said.
He informed that Nagaland is known for cultural festivals such as the Hornbill Festival, while Malta is celebrated for its historical sites and coastal heritage.
“Both actively work towards preserving traditional culture and identity, balancing modernisation with strong respect for customs, language, and local heritage. These shared traits give both Malta and Nagaland a strong sense of identity and resilience despite their small size,” Er. Rutsa said.
Tonight, we gather not only to witness a parade of colours, music, and creativity, but to celebrate the spirit of togetherness that defines our land, he said adding that this year’s theme, ‘Unity in Rhythm’, reminds the people that “even though we come from different backgrounds, speak different languages, and carry different stories, our hearts can beat in the same rhythm when we choose harmony over division.”
He maintained that the night parade has been always special—lights dancing in the dark, drums echoing through the air, and performers bringing life to the streets with energy and passion.
“It is a testament to the talent of our people and the warmth of our hospitality,” he said.
May tonight inspire unity, may it strengthen friendships, and may it remind us that when we move together, we shine brighter, he added.
The Hornbill Carnival parade started with special performances by Teu-Tou, Pfuchazounuo, Pfhesi Kro and Seyiejanuo Rutsa and Vizolenuo Keretsü.
The Hornbill Carnival Parade featured a wide-ranging lineup representing tribes, organisations, government departments, and special groups. It included Sei Bagei, Sei Chatuo, Assam Rifles pipe band, display of Naga lifestyle, cultural troupes from Angami, Ao, Chang, Mao, Rongmei, Chakhesang, Garo, Kachari, Khiamniungan, Konyak, Kuki, Lotha, Phom, Pochury, Manipur Cultural Society, Gorkha, Poumai, Rengma, Sangtam, Sumi, Tikhir, Yimkhiung and Zeliang.
Miss Nagaland 2025 and Miss Kohima 2025 alongwith runner- up also joined the carnival parade.
Khrielasier Liezietsu displayed her designs. It also featured cosplay, sports persons and Christmas carol. The carnival parade was also joined by Power Department, KMC Sanitation Workers, SDRF, Police personnel, fire fighters and Nagaland State AIDS Control Society. Menguseü Suokhrie host the event while Visato Yhoshü, Pastor, UBC invoked God’s blessing.
Ireland’s Deputy Ambassador to India, Raymond Mullen was also present at the event.
