For the first time in its history, Nagaland’s renowned Hornbill Festival featured an Advent Christmas service, blending the vibrant cultural showcase with the spiritual essence of the festive season.
Held at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama on Sunday, the service was organized by the Nagaland Joint Christian Forum (NJCF) and marked a significant milestone in the 25th edition of the state’s event.
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio attended the occasion, highlighting the profound connection between the spirit of Christmas and the cultural heritage celebrated at the festival.
“This year’s celebration holds special meaning as it coincides with the silver jubilee of the Hornbill Festival,” Rio said.
The chief minister also commended the NJCF for introducing the Advent Christmas service.
Addressing the gathering, Rio emphasized the values of love, unity, and forgiveness during the festive season.
He reminded attendees of the true essence of Christmas—the birth of Jesus Christ, who symbolizes hope, peace, and salvation.
The chief minister also reflected on the deep ties between spirituality, indigenous identity, and Nagaland’s historical journey.
Citing the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR) Act of 1873 and Article 371A of the Indian Constitution, Rio underlined their significance in preserving Naga heritage and political identity.
“These protections not only safeguard the uniqueness of the Naga people but also reinforce the importance of unity in our shared journey,” he stated.
The Christmas message was delivered by Rev. Dr. Zelhou Keyho, Advisor to the NJCF, who called on people to embrace the spiritual essence of the season.
“The true beauty of Christmas lies in worshipping the Lord,” Rev. Dr. Keyho said, cautioning against the distractions of modern life that often obscure the deeper meaning of the holiday.
“Christmas is for everyone—the rich, the poor, the locals, and the tourists. It’s not about Santa Claus; it’s about God who came to dwell among us,” he said.
The service featured heartfelt renditions of Christmas carols by various church groups and included special prayers for the safety and well-being of visitors attending the Hornbill Festival.
The event culminated with the congregation singing the timeless Christmas hymn “Joy to the World,” spreading a message of hope and unity.
This Advent Christmas service marked a unique confluence of faith and culture, underscoring the rich tapestry of Nagaland’s heritage while fostering a sense of spiritual reflection.
For both locals and visitors, the occasion added a meaningful dimension to the Hornbill Festival, affirming Nagaland’s reputation as a state where tradition and modernity coexist in harmony.
