25th Hornbill Festival concludes with the Stone Pulling Ceremony

Involved pulling a massive stone as mark of shared efforts of groups

IH News Desk

REGIONAL, December 04, 2024: The 25th Hornbill Festival in Kisama concluded with the Stone Pulling Ceremony at the Naga Heritage Village Wednesday. Temjen Imna Along, Minister of Tourism and Higher Education, highlighted the cultural and historical significance of this tradition.

He praised the Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO) and other community leaders for their dedication to preserving the rich cultural heritage. The ceremony involved pulling a massive stone from Napfülezha Kigwema TCP Gate to Kisama showcasing the shared efforts of various groups such as the Southern Angami People’s Organization, Southern Angami Youth Organisation, women’s groups and local leaders.

Imna Along described the stone as a representation of Nagaland’s cultural heritage and a blessing for the future. He also thanked the Department of Tourism, the Department of Art and Culture, and the numerous visitors who joined the celebration. The programme was led by Er Swelul Pucho and featured a valedictory address by Balie Kere, Chairman of Kigwema Village, and a benediction prayer by Pastor Zhawheto Tacü from CRC Phesama.

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