Chizokho Vero
Morung Express News
Kohima, NOV 6: Good news to both domestic and international tourists. Beginning this year, they (tourists) will have more time to experience the Hornbill festival of Nagaland as the government has decided to make it a seven day affair against five days in the previous years.
A source told The Morung Express that the move to extend 2 more days was to give momentum to the sale cum exhibition activities during the festival. Such arrangements would serve as an opportunity to many visitors; to witness and buy various products in the festival, sources added.
Meanwhile, an observer felt that the government must release the salary on time in the month of December and at the same time regretted that delay in payment would result in thin inflow of visitors as has been witnessed in the past. The festival is a tribute to the Hornbill, a bird most admired by the Nagas for its alertness and grandeur. This bird is closely linked with the social and cultural life of the Nagas, as is evident through tribal folklore, dances and songs.
During the 7 day long festival, the visitors will get a closer look and understand Naga life and culture, in a time when a comparatively peaceful atmosphere has been prevailing in the state. The festival is mainly designed to promote ethnic and eco-tourism in this hilly state and to provide a platform to the Nagas to exchange and display their rich cultural and traditional heritage. The festival would also provide an opportunity to domestic and international tourists to witness Naga traditional dances, music, art, handloom and handicrafts, talents and skills and the overall lifestyles of various communities.
