The 3-days celebration of the 1st Mon Edition of the International Hornbill Festival, Evening Gala comes to an end with DC, Mon, Wennyei Konyak as Honoured Guest of the show at Konyak Heritage Complex, Mon on 10th December 2025.
In his closing remark, Wennyei Konyak appreciated the Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio and the government for bringing forth the International Hornbill Festival, Mon Edition to the district.
He remarked that the CM's vision and concern for cultural promotion and inclusive development has inspired the people of the district, and added that the three days festival was a celebration of unity, heritage, identity with dignity and the spirit worthy of our ancestors.
While celebrating the proud and rich cultural heritage of the Konyak, the festival had set a new benchmark of unity and togetherness in the district. Reaffirming the commitment to safeguard our identity and cultural heritage, the DC urged the citizens for more cooperation and unity in days ahead.
He expressed gratitude to the Mon elected members for their presence and support and also thanked the department of DUDA, Tourism, Art and Culture, TAFMA, Konyak Union, KNSU, Cultural Troupes and all others involved in successfully curating and presenting the programme.
He acknowledged the citizens of the district for keeping their doors open to all visitors from across the state and beyond and asked them to carry forward the spirit of togetherness and extend hospitality to reach greater heights in days to come.
Later, various local artists ignited the lights once again at the amphitheatre with a spectacular performance enthralling the audience with their voices echoing far and wide at Konyak Heritage. Artists including the popular Nagamese singer David Konyak with his original Bura Baba, Honted Konyak's Zowe of Konyak version, and many others including special appearances from TAFMA performed at the show.
Earlier during the Indigenous Games Competition, Chingai and Zaklom wards, won the 1st and 2nd prizes respectively in Dao Sharpness competition, while Jahjon and Techa ward secured 1st and 2nd in Traditional Wool Spinning. Tompang ward won 1st, while Shamnyu and Chingai wards secured 2nd in Bamboo Race Ward-wise competition.
(IA Chen)
