The Naga Heritage village where the Hornbill festival unfolds symbolizes a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. This village houses a cluster of 17 Tribal huts known as Morungs or Youth Dormitories, each uniquely designed to represent a distinct tribe. These architectural marvels adorned with indigenous design and cultural motifs provide a fascinating insight into the Naga way of life. Vistors are treated to a captivating spectacle of tribal dance, local cuisine, songs and rituals that encapsulate the essense of Naga culture. 

One amongst the Morungs is the Ao Morung where Ao Naga delicacies are one of the favorites of the local Visitors and the Tourist. Some of the hot dishes in Ao Morung available are Dry Pork cooked with Anishi, Rosup dish, Pork with Bamboo shoot, Amrusu and Fish cooked in bamboo tubes. Rosup is a traditional and signature dish of the Ao Naga Tribe. It is a dish made of mixed vegetables, dry fish and bamboo shoots. The Bamboo shoot is used in both dried and fermented form by the Aos.

Traditional Ao Naga foods are spicy and non-vegetarian. Anishi is another delicacy in  Ao  Morung  which is made of  fermented Taro leaves made into patties and then smoked over the fire or sun dried and is often cooked with dried pork and dried  fish. 

            For anyone seeking a profound local delicacy and cultural experience, the Hornbill festival is an unmissable event which not only offers a glimpse into the soul of Nagaland but also reaffirms the enduring relevance of cultural heritage in a rapidly changing world.

The festival encapsulates the spirit of unity in diversity leaving an indelible mark on all those who partake in its celebration.

(Temjenkaba, APRO)