18th BISHU MINI HORNBILL TRIBAL FESTIVAL 2026 BEGINS AT CHÜMOUKEDIMA
CHUMOUKEDIMA, Jan 27: The 18th Bishu Mini Hornbill Tribal Festival 2026 was inaugurated at the Government High School Playground, Dhansiripar, Chümoukedima, on January 27, marking the formal opening of the traditional Bishu celebration, the post-harvest festival of the Dimasa community.
Addressing the gathering, Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change and Village Guard, C. L. John, said that festivals such as Bishu and the Hornbill Festival serve as important platforms for unity, reconciliation and shared identity among the diverse tribes of Nagaland. Highlighting the essence of Bishu, he said that merrymaking, music, dance and food are integral to the festival, while also providing an opportunity for reconciliation. He urged the people to forgive, forget differences and move forward together.
Emphasising the need to remove tribalism and factionalism, the Minister called upon the people to strive for peace and unity for the economic progress of the State. Describing the Hornbill Festival as the “festival of unity,” he said it brings all tribes of Nagaland onto one platform, allowing them to speak with one voice while celebrating their diversity. He added that such festivals foster mutual respect, understanding and harmony and help bridge differences among communities.
Encouraging the youth, he urged them to work hard and aspire to become leaders in fields such as civil services, science, medicine and other professions for the betterment of society.
Short speeches were also delivered by special invitees Zhato Kimho, President, Chakroma Public Organisation; Vikato Achumi, President, Western Sumi Hoho; Thamlong Phom, President, Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Union, Dimapur; and C. K. Bill Mech, President, Kachari Tribe Council, Nagaland.
Earlier, the programme began with the Bishu prayer led by Lemsen Hojai, Vice President, KRPC, followed by a welcome address by Ditush Naben, President, Dimasa Public Organisation, Nagaland. Bishu greetings were extended by S. K. Khemprai, Advisor, Kachari Tribal Council, Nagaland. Cultural performances by Doyapur Cultural Troupe and Sumi Cultural Troupe were also presented. The vote of thanks was delivered by Robert Khemprai, General Secretary, DPON.
The Minister also inaugurated the exhibition stalls showcasing ethnic cuisine and traditional attire from 10 Dimasa villages, with participation from local entrepreneurs, self-help groups and women of the Dimasa community. The two-day festival is being organised by the Dimasa Public Organisation, Nagaland in collaboration with the Nagaland Tourism Department at Dhansiripar, Chümoukedima. (Samuel, IA Chümoukedima)
