Advisor to Chief Minister Nagaland, Abu Metha stated that the Hip-Fest has contributed to the growth and journey of the Hornbill Festival and it is festivals like these that Nagaland is taken to the world, and the world is bought to Nagaland, while inaugurating the Hornbill International Photo Fest organized by DIPR and Eastern Art Council at Kisama on 1st December 2021.
Metha stated that photography is an art that can speak a thousand words and tell the story of the Naga way of life in one picture. Hornbill Festival is not only about one event but is a wholesome Naga experience. While we promote, preserve Naga culture by showcasing our dances, songs, it also events like these that show that the younger generation is arriving the world stage. Art, photography and music are taking Naga soft power beyond our boundaries, he added. Abu further added that the Hornbill Festival amplifies the new found ambition of the Naga youth to step out to achieve excellence in the new environment of the global stage. The success story of the Hornbill Festival is not only of the Government but the success story of the people of Nagaland and every Naga citizen is a stakeholder of the festival.
Proprietor, Portrait Studio & Eastern Art Council, Myinthungo Ezung stated that Hip Fest started in the year 2008 and has come a long way as part of Hornbill Festival. Hip Fest has bought photographers, artisans and enthusiasts not only from the State but from all over the world under one roof. He stated that the exhibition shows every aspect of Naga way of life though photographs. He informed that there are 46 participants with 116 entries for this year’s photo competition and the results will be declared on 3rd December, while the prizes will be awarded on 7th December. Myinthungo also thanked the Department of Information & Public Relations for supporting the event and coming in as a partner.
The Hornbill International Photo Fest also has photos on display by Tom Potisit, an award winning professional photographer from Thailand. Tom is well known for stimulating conversations on social and environmental issues across various mediums and industries.
(Akummeren, IA)