New Delhi: The vibrant cultural essence of Nagaland came to life in the national capital on Friday as Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra inaugurated the ‘Autumn Festival 2025’ at Nagaland House.
The two-day celebration, organised by the Department of Tourism, Government of Nagaland, and hosted by Nagaland Tourism Minister Temjen Imna Along, offers visitors a glimpse into the state’s rich traditions through its music, dance, handicrafts, and cuisine.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, along with ambassadors, diplomats, and senior officials.
Mishra, the Minister for Art, Culture and Languages and Tourism, inaugurated the Artisans’ Corner and several traditional stalls showcasing handmade crafts, authentic Naga attire, and local delicacies prepared by tribal artisans from Nagaland.
Expressing his gratitude, Mishra said he was honoured to be part of the festival and thanked Minister Temjen Imna Along for inviting him and fostering a cultural connection between the Delhi government and Nagaland through the initiative.
“The relationship between Delhi and Nagaland is one of brotherhood. Many people from Nagaland live in Delhi, and this bond, which is older than the Mahabharata, will continue to grow with mutual respect and affection,” he said.
Mishra said he looked forward to attending the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland later this year.
“We plan to collaborate with the Delhi Tourism Department to launch a dedicated ‘Naga Culture Festival’ as an annual event in the capital,” he said, adding that planning for the initiative will begin early next year.
Along said the festival serves as a curtain-raiser to the 26th Hornbill Festival, Nagaland’s biggest cultural celebration, which will be held from December 1 to 10.
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The minister also announced that the process of obtaining Inner Line Permits (ILP) for tourists visiting Nagaland is being simplified. He added that special helpline centres are being set up at Nagaland Houses in Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati to assist visitors.
