The 3rd edition of the Autumn Festival came to a close on 20th October 2024, held at the Lawns of Nagaland House, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Road, New Delhi. The three-day event which began on 18th October 2024 witnessed the coming together of Naga community residing in the capital region, guests and well-wishers from Delhi. The Autumn Festival is a prelude to the 25th edition of Hornbill Festival 2024 to be held from 1st- 10th December 2024 at Kisama.
Additional Secretary, Higher Education, Government of India, Sunit Kumar Barnwal was the guest of honour and Director British Council, Alison Barrett was the honoured guest at the culmination programme. Minister of Tourism and Higher Education, Government of Nagaland, Temjen Imna Along, was the chief host and Resident Commissioner, Nagaland House, New Delhi, Wennyei Konyak, was the host of the event.
Guests and visitors were regaled with enthralling performance by Delhi Eastern Nagaland Students’ Union, with Naga artists Shelao Kheang, Phelao, Samuel and DGP Band performing some popular English, Hindi and some original songs as well for the audience.
Advisor to Chief Minister & Chairman IDAN, Government of Nagaland, Abu Metha, who graced the second day as the chief guest shared that it was an honour to participate, interact with the members of the Naga community and friends of Nagaland and spread the Naga way of life. He expressed his happiness on seeing the energy and confidence of the youth and see so many well-wishers willing to be part of the ‘Nagaland Experience.’ He also lauded Nagaland Tourism under the leadership of Minister, Temjen Imna Along and Resident Commissioner’s Office led by Wennyei Konyak for the success of the Autumn Festival.
Artisans, entrepreneurs, Naga brands such as Runway India, Ukrü Crafts, Kintem also took part in the event. ‘Women Folk,’ a Naga brand under Nagaland State Rural Livelihood Mission shared that they received positive response from visitors during the three-day event. Mongken (under the Department of Underdeveloped Areas) shared that Naga textiles, designs and jewelleries were popular with shoppers. Green Accent, from Phek Nagaland, dealing in organic fruits, vegetables and value added products also shared a similar experience.
(IA New Delhi)
