KOHIMA — With just a few days away for the 25th edition of the Hornbill Festival to begin at the Heritage Village in Kisama, the state government has set things up in order to welcome visitors.
Unlike any other year, new facilities and infrastructure have been constructed at Kisama to mark the 25-year celebration of the famed Hornbill Festival. Efforts have also been made to introduce some 'first-ever' exhibitions and activities by various agencies.
When Eastern Mirror interacted with some of the people in Kisama on Friday, officials informed that preparations are at their final stage and would be ready by Saturday.
C Rongsen Pongener, curator and officer-in-charge of the Second World War Museum in Kisama under the Department of Art and Culture, informed that everyone is busy getting ready for the festival. He added that people are working really hard and rushing things. He informed that things would be ready by Saturday.
“Let’s hope and pray that all will enjoy and this (Hornbill Festival) will be a grand success,'" he said.
In memory of the Hornbill Festival 25 silver jubilee, the department of Art and Culture is organising the 'Naga artisan corner,' where live demonstrations of art, craft, and weaving will be held. This activity, he said, was a new achievement for the department.
Besides that, the department is also including the National Archives from Delhi, which is a new addition this year.
Dr. Kenei Medom, who is working for 'National Archives,' said that the department is bringing the archival exhibitions for the first time at Kisama on the theme “Naga-land and people in archival mirrors.”
Noting that everything was set by Friday, he extended open invitations to everyone to come and have a look at the exhibition.
Mhasivituo, vice president of Rusoma Village Youth and Sports Association, expressed hope that there would be more visitors this year.
The Angami Morung would be run by Rusoma village this year, and accordingly, preparations have been made.
“We are almost done and ready except for final touches. By tomorrow, things will be ready,” he said while welcoming visitors to the Morung.
Senupelo, manager of the Chakhesang Morung from Thetsumi Village, shared that they have been spending days in Kisama preparing and renovating the morung.
“Preparation is now almost finished, and we are trying our best to satisfy visitors and guests. By Saturday, things left will be done,” he said.
'Exotic foods, snacks, and fruits of the village will be made available because we want our visitors and guests to enjoy the organic food', the manager said and called upon all to come and celebrate the festival with them.
The ten-day Hornbill Festival begins on Sunday (December 1) and would culminate on December 10.