Kevin Kelly, Ambassador of Ireland to India, with Nagaland Minister Temjen Imna Along and Abu Metha, Adviser to the Chief Minister of Nagaland and Chairman of IDAN, during the Autumn Festival at Nagaland House in New Delhi on October 25.
NEW DELHI, OCTOBER 25 (MExN): The 4th edition of the Autumn Festival, organised as a prelude to the 26th Hornbill Festival 2025, concluded on October 25 at Nagaland House, 29 Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Road, New Delhi.
Kevin Kelly, Ambassador of Ireland to India, graced the closing ceremony as chief guest. Temjen Imna Along, Nagaland Minister for Tourism and Higher Education, was the chief host, while Abu Metha, Adviser to the Chief Minister of Nagaland and Chairman of IDAN, served as co-host.
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Kelly said the Festival reflected the distinct Naga identity expressed “with real confidence,” reminding that heritage is living, evolving and shared. Culture, he said, “is not something we put on display, but a fundamental component of who we are as a people,” and plays a significant role in Ireland’s foreign policy and soft power.
Recalling the historical parallels between Ireland, India and Nagaland in emerging from colonial rule, he said such shared experiences deepen their relationship. The strength of a nation, he added, lies in all its people and their diversity. He also noted that Ireland’s ties with India are forward-looking, with major focus areas including trade, education, research and cultural cooperation.
Kelly further observed that Ireland and Nagaland share a deep respect for unique identities and diversity. He expressed excitement to visit Nagaland later this year to attend the Hornbill Festival.
The two-day event featured an emphatic war dance by the Sumi Students’ Union, Delhi, musical performances by Colored Keys, The Mahila Band, The Eastory Project, Tiatemsu Jamir and Kiki Longkumer, and a display of traditional Naga textile, ‘The Indigo Medley,’ designed by Kintem. Sharon Longchari, Joint Resident Commissioner, Nagaland House, delivered the welcome address, while Bangshing Panja compered the programme.
