Chümoukedima, Jan 27, 2026: The 18th Bishu Mini Hornbill Tribal Festival 2026 was celebrated with traditional fervour at the Government High School Playground, Dhansiripar, Chümoukedima, on Tuesday, marking the formal inauguration of Bishu, the post-harvest festival of the Dimasa community.
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| Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change and Village Guard, C. L. John, delivering a speech. |
Inaugurating the festival, Nagaland Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change and Village Guard, C. L. John, said festivals such as Bishu and the Hornbill Festival serve as vital platforms for unity, reconciliation and shared identity among the diverse tribes of Nagaland. He said merrymaking, music, dance and food form the core of Bishu while also offering space for reconciliation and healing.
Urging communities to forgive past differences, the Minister called for unity, peace and the removal of tribalism and factionalism to ensure the economic progress of the state. Describing the Hornbill Festival as the “festival of unity,” he said it brings all tribes of Nagaland onto a common platform to celebrate diversity with one collective voice, fostering mutual respect, understanding and harmony.
John also encouraged the youth to work hard and aspire to leadership roles in civil services, science, medicine and other professions for the betterment of society.
Short addresses were delivered by special invitees Zhato Kimho, Vikato Achumi, Thamlong Phom, and C.K. Bill Mech.
Earlier, the programme began with the Bishu prayer led by Lemsen Hojai, followed by a welcome address by Ditush Naben. Bishu greetings were extended by S. K. Khemprai, while cultural performances were presented by the Doyapur Cultural Troupe and Sumi Cultural Troupe. The vote of thanks was delivered by Robert Khemprai.
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The Minister also inaugurated 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.
