Nagaland’s Music Resonates in Delhi; the Capital Sways to the Rhythms of the Hornbill

New Delhi: The Talkatora Stadium in the national capital became a vibrant showcase for the culture, music, and traditions of Northeast India, with the entire venue resonating with melodies. The occasion was the grand finale of ‘Ticket to Hornbill 2026,’ where the folk culture and contemporary music of Nagaland captivated the audience. Held on November 6, the event drew music enthusiasts from across the country, who were treated to a spectacular display of Naga heritage, folk dances, and fashion.

Organised under the joint aegis of the Nagaland Tourism Department and the Task Force for Music & Arts (TaFMA), the event aimed to connect the residents of the capital with the Hornbill Festival. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio served as the primary host, with Minister of Tourism and Higher Education Temjen Imna Along as the co-host.

A Magnificent Confluence of Music and Culture

The event featured a fashion showcase where participants donned traditional Naga attire, while performances of folk songs and contemporary music infused the atmosphere with fresh energy. Following acts by Azi Rudy, Sentien Kichu, and Vetho Rakho, ‘Ao Naga Fusion’ and ‘Densu’ brought the vibrant colours of folk culture to the stage.

In the thrilling National Band Competition, the band ‘Terat’ from Mizoram secured first place. ‘Steel Falcon’ from Bengaluru emerged as the first runner-up, while ‘Enchanter’ from Uttarakhand took the position of second runner-up. These three winning bands will perform alongside 45 other international-calibre bands at the Hornbill Music Festival in Nagaland this December.

The competition featured cash prizes totalling ₹20 lakh, along with musical instruments valued at ₹5 lakh. Individual artists also showcased their exceptional talent across various categories. Theja Meru, Chairman of the Task Force for Music and Arts, expressed his gratitude to the audience, noting that the enthusiasm and support shown to the artists in Delhi were truly commendable. He described the event as a significant medium for showcasing Nagaland’s cultural identity across the country.

It is worth noting that the Hornbill Festival will be held from December 1st to 10th at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama. There, tourists from across the nation and abroad will have the opportunity to experience Nagaland’s folk dances, music, cuisine, handicrafts, and tribal traditions. This cultural showcase in Delhi has proven that music knows no boundaries. The melodies of Nagaland, which resonated in the capital, will soon be heard once again—this time amidst the landscapes of Kisama in December—on a stage that commands international recognition.