Nagaland: Colourful dances, songs mark Day 6 of Hornbill Festival

Kohima: The sixth day of the ongoing Hornbill Festival at Naga Heritage villa, Kisama, on Saturday unfolded with a colourful array of traditional dances, songs, and cultural expressions, as tribes from across Nagaland and neighbouring Arunachal Pradesh showcased their rich heritage on the cultural stage.

The Wancho Fusion Crew from Longding of Arunachal Pradesh presented a powerful cultural showcase titled “From Roots to Rhythm,” blending traditional Wancho war dances with modern fusion styles.

Founded in 2012, the group highlighted four thematic performances with the war dance team depicting unity after the loss of a village warrior, the shield team demonstrating traditional defence techniques, the girls team promoting women’s empowerment, and the stunt team portraying the community’s transition from headhunting traditions to harmony.

The presentation reflected how the Wancho community has evolved from its fierce past to a future built on cultural pride, creativity, and unity.

The Ao cultural troupe of Nagaland presented Yimdongsü Yar, the traditional male street festival dance performed exclusively by men during festive occasions.

The Angami cultural troupe performed Tephrie Metsa, an indigenous game played with a stick by the menfolk, reflecting traditional agility and strength.

The Garo cultural troupe presented Nanggorere Goserong, a light-hearted folk song sung during festivals and gatherings, often used to playfully tease one another.

Cultural troupe from other Naga tribes such as Chakhesang, Chang, Konyak, Lotha, Pochury, Rengma, Kuki, Khiamniungan, Sangtam, Sumi, Zeliang and Yimkhiung also presented their traditional dances and songs on the day.

Hosted by power & parliamentary affairs minister KG Kenye, the cultural show was attended by NEC secretary Satinder Kumar Bhalla, GOC, 3 Corps Lt. Gen. Abhijit S Pendharkar, among other dignitaries.