Arunachal Pradesh has taken center stage at the 26th Hornbill Festival, serving as the single State Partner and presenting its cultural diversity, traditional craftsmanship, and developing business landscape at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama. The relationship not only highlights Arunachal’s cultural diplomacy, but it also improves opportunities for regional cooperation, increased market access, and sustainable tourism. A specialized kiosk near the entrance to the Bamboo Pavilion has become a popular attraction, providing visitors with a glimpse into Arunachal’s artisanal environment.
House of Macnok is one of the brands gaining popularity, offering handcrafted products manufactured by rural populations, especially women and youth, that combine revitalized ancient craft processes with modern usefulness. KT Organic and Healthy Fruit, established in 2022 in Ziro Valley, sells organic fruit candies manufactured from kiwi, plum, peach, pineapple, and wild apple. A women-led SHG under the Idu Mishmi apex organization is gaining traction with GI-registered traditional textiles that preserve cultural authenticity while adapting to modern patterns.
Women entrepreneurs at Siang Beverages are promoting handcrafted, organic, rice-based brews through traditional fermentation methods. The festival, showcasing Arunachal’s cultural richness, attracted significant attention, especially on Day 4 with a display of unity from 18 Naga tribes. Hosted by Rural Development Minister Metsubo Jamir, the event featured special guests including Air India Express MD Aloke Singh. A highlight was Yungan Khampai Konyak, Nagaland’s tallest man, who captivated visitors. Attendees enjoyed traditional games, the Hornbill International Naga Wrestling Championship, and the festival has recorded 55,842 visitors, reflecting its popularity as Nagaland’s “Festival of Festivals.”
