Which festival celebrated in Nagaland every year in the month of December is known as the ‘Festival of Festivals' ?

The correct answer is Hornbill Festival.

Key Points

• The Hornbill Festival is celebrated annually in Nagaland, India, during the first week of December, from December 1 to December 10.
• It is referred to as the 'Festival of Festivals' as it showcases the rich cultural heritage, art, music, dance, and cuisine of Nagaland's diverse tribes.
• The festival is named after the Great Indian Hornbill, a bird revered in Naga culture for its majestic appearance and symbolic significance.
• The event takes place at the Kisama Heritage Village, located about 12 kilometers from Kohima, the capital of Nagaland.
• Organized by the Nagaland State Government, the festival aims to promote tourism and preserve the traditional heritage of the state's 16 major tribes.

Additional Information

• Kisama Heritage Village:
  • The venue for the Hornbill Festival, Kisama Heritage Village, is designed to represent a typical Naga village, allowing visitors to experience the region's tribal lifestyle and architecture.
  • The village also houses morungs (traditional Naga dormitories), handicraft stalls, and food courts serving authentic Naga cuisine.
• Naga Tribes:
  • Nagaland is home to 16 major tribes, including the Ao, Angami, Sumi, and Konyak tribes, each with its own unique traditions, language, and attire.
  • The Hornbill Festival provides a platform for these tribes to showcase their culture through traditional dances, music, and handicrafts.
• Great Indian Hornbill:
  • The festival is named after the Great Indian Hornbill, a large and colorful bird found in the forests of Nagaland.
  • This bird is significant in Naga folklore and is often depicted in traditional tribal motifs and ornaments.
• Tourism Impact:
  • The Hornbill Festival attracts thousands of domestic and international tourists, contributing significantly to the state's economy.
  • It has become one of the most popular cultural festivals in India, promoting Nagaland as a vibrant tourist destination.
• Other Features:
  • The festival includes various events such as traditional wrestling, indigenous games, fashion shows, and rock music concerts.
  • It also features the Hornbill International Rock Contest, which draws bands from across the globe.