Nagaland Brings Hornbill Festival Spirit to Delhi With ‘Ticket to Hornbill’

Nagaland Tourism Minister Temjen Imna Along on Wednesday announced “Ticket to Hornbill,” a two-day cultural showcase aimed at bringing the state’s music, traditions and heritage to the national capital ahead of the annual Hornbill Festival.

Organised by Tourism Nagaland and the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA), the event will be held at Talkatora Stadium on October 16 and 17. Along said the initiative would provide audiences in Delhi with an opportunity to experience Nagaland’s cultural identity while encouraging greater tourism interest in the state.

The opening day, which is expected to be attended by Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, will feature cultural performances, live music and artistic presentations. The second day will host a national band competition, with participants yet to be finalized.

The competition, presented by Casio India, will offer a ₹20 lakh cash prize pool, while Furtados and Sennheiser will sponsor individual musical instruments worth ₹5 lakh. The winning band will receive ₹10 lakh and an opportunity to perform at the Hornbill Music Festival in Nagaland in December.

TaFMA chairman Theja Meru said the contest aims to address challenges faced by independent musicians, including limited access to major venues, industry networks and financial support.

Abu Metha, adviser to the Nagaland chief minister, said the initiative would connect the state’s young musical talent with wider markets and professional opportunities.

The Hornbill Festival will be held from December 1 to 10 at Kisama Village in Nagaland. Known for bringing together the state’s diverse tribal communities, the festival features hundreds of cultural and musical performances.

According to Metha, last year’s festival attracted international participation from countries including the US, UK and Wales, generated more than ₹200 crore in revenue and created around 8,000 jobs during its 10-day run. “Ticket to Hornbill” is expected to further build national interest in the festival and Nagaland’s cultural and creative economy.