What Is Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival? Discover The Epic ‘Stone Pulling Ceremony’ That Left Everyone Awestruck

In a stunning display of strength and unity, 1,500 members of the Angami Naga tribe participated in a powerful cultural ceremony at Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival on Wednesday. The tribe pulled a massive 15-tonne stone for around four kilometers along the winding roads near Kohima. This ceremonial event, known as the ‘Stone Pulling Ceremony,’ was a significant cultural tradition that captivated both locals and tourists alike.

The stone, 24 feet long, 6 feet wide, and 1.8 feet thick, was pulled with the use of ropes. As the tribe worked together, men hummed traditional tunes, while the sound of gunshots echoed, encouraging the participants. Women in bright traditional costumes walked with the group, carrying food and water in bamboo baskets to support the effort. This was on the fourth day of the 10-day Hornbill Festival, which is held at the Naga Heritage Village at Kisama-Dituthong, about 12 kilometers away from Kohima, the state capital.

The ceremony was flagged off officially by Union Tourism Minister Ganjendra Singh Shekhawat, following the blessings from Balie Kere, Chairman of the Kigwema Village Council. Among others, Neiphiu Rio, Chief Minister of Nagaland, and Sharingain Longkumer, Speaker of the Assembly, were present at the event. In his speech, Shekhawat emphasized the significance of unity, “The pulling of stone gives us a sense that united we are strong. The way our ancestors could unitedly pull heavy stones or wooden logs, we can unitedly pull our country to the expectations of the future generations,” he said.

Shekhawat added that he was very much looking forward to the celebration of the Hornbill Festival while admiring the lively culture and breathtaking beauty of Nagaland. He suggested increasing support from the Government of India and the Ministry of Tourism and Culture that can make the festival recognized internationally, drawing more foreign visitors.

Nagaland’s Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio also dwelt on the importance of keeping and promoting the wealth of culture in the state. “It’s a moment of happiness to come together in this manner celebrating our rich festivals.”

The British Council was heavily involved in organizing a cultural event at the Hornbill Festival, bringing in the economic aspects to the event. Alison Barrett MBE, Country Director India, British Council, shared how the organization is working to establish deeper connections of young people from different countries through arts, music, and education. She emphasized that cultural exchanges foster understanding, and friendships across borders.

Barrett mentioned, “We believe that culture-whether through music, literature, or the arts-is a powerful way of getting to know another place and another person: through educational partnerships and cross-cultural exchange we can build friendships and ultimately contribute to a more peaceful and prosperous world”.

As the Hornbill Festival continues, the ‘Stone Pulling Ceremony’ remains a powerful symbol of the Angami Naga tribe’s unity, resilience, and commitment to preserving their unique cultural traditions. The event, alongside the efforts of organizations like the British Council, underscores the potential of such cultural exchanges to foster a more connected and harmonious global community.

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