The 25th edition of the renowned Hornbill Festival continued its vibrant celebration on its second day, captivating attendees with a tapestry of cultural performances and exciting collaborations at the Heritage Village in Kisama. Running from December 1st to December 10th, this year's festival promises to be a grand spectacle showcasing Nagaland's rich cultural heritage alongside global artistic partnerships.
On day two, troupes adorned in vibrant traditional attire were eager to take the stage, their excitement palpable. One of the most anticipated highlights of this year's festival is the participation of Mari Mathias, a celebrated Welsh folk and indie singer-songwriter. Mathias' music, known for seamlessly blending traditional Welsh folk with modern indie influences, has garnered a wide following worldwide. Her performance at the Hornbill Festival has generated significant buzz among attendees.
In a recent interview with ANI, Mathias expressed her enthusiasm about performing in India, particularly in Nagaland. She emphasized the importance of cultural exchange in strengthening ties between nations.
"Cultural exchange is vital for building lasting relationships between countries," Mathias stated. "It helps us understand one another better, fostering respect and deeper connections that transcend borders."
The Hornbill Festival, often referred to as the 'Festival of Festivals', is renowned for its diverse cultural offerings, including music, dance, and traditional art forms. This year, the festival has taken an exciting step forward by incorporating an international dimension through a collaboration with the British Council and the State of Nagaland.
This partnership, under the banner of 'Wales in India 2024,' highlights the long-standing commitment of both the British Council and the Welsh Government to promoting cultural exchange. As part of this collaboration, Mathias and fellow Welsh folk musician Gareth Bonello will perform alongside local Naga artist Seyievinuo Chuzho and Khasi artist Benedict Skhemlang Hynniewta.
These cross-cultural musical performances are expected to be a major draw for festival-goers, showcasing an exciting fusion of Welsh and Naga musical traditions. The British Council's involvement, officially announced during a visit by Nagaland's Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio to Wales in October, underscores the growing relationship between the UK and Nagaland. This initiative is also supported by the British Deputy High Commission in Kolkata, Wales Arts International, and the Indian Wales Culture Fund, which aims to foster new platforms for both Indian and Welsh artists.
Beyond the musical performances, the festival offers engaging discussion sessions that delve into the intersections of culture, art, and education. These sessions provide a platform for insightful dialogue and knowledge sharing, enriching the overall festival experience.
