Cultural troupe of the Thang Range Public Organissation (TRPO) presents a traditional music ‘Poi-Poi Dong- Dong’ during the 5th edition of the Khaozaosie Hok-Ah-cum-Mini Hornbill Festival 2026 held at Nokhu EAC headquarters under Noklak district on January 21. (DIPR Photo)
Noklak, January 21(MExN): The fifth edition of the Khaozaosie Hok-Ah-cum-Mini Hornbill Festival 2026, organised by the Khiamniungan Tribal Council with assistance from the Government of Nagaland, concluded on January 21 at the Nokhu EAC headquarters under Noklak district.
Addressing the gathering as special guest, Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organization (ENPO) president A Chingmak Chang said the State government has opened the door for the creation of Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) by sending its recommendation to the Centre. After over a decade of sustained demand for FNT, he said the aspiration is now closer to becoming a reality and appealed to all Eastern Nagas to continue prayers and support to ensure fulfilment of the long-standing demand.
Chang also urged officers posted in Noklak district, under the leadership of the Deputy Commissioner, to take a proactive role in the progress and development of the district. He further appealed to the citizens of Noklak district to cooperate with the officers in all developmental activities.
Extending greetings on the occasion of the Khaozaosie Hok-Ah cum Mini Hornbill Festival 2026, the ENPO president expressed hope that the festival would serve as a platform to forget and forgive past differences, foster trust and strengthen unity among the people and tribes.
Festival host MLA P Longon, in his address, said the celebration should inspire people to trust one another and strengthen unity within the Khiamniungan tribe as well as with other tribes. He added that the State government has initiated tribal festivals to foster unity among tribes and the Nagas as a whole, thereby advancing collective aspirations and unity of the Naga people.
Deputy Commissioner of Noklak Mono Khiamniungan also extended festival greetings and advised the community to preserve the rich culture and traditions of the tribe. He emphasised the importance of agriculture as a sustainable livelihood.
Earlier, the Thang Range Public Organization presented a special performance of Poi-Poi Dong-Dong, a traditional musical instrument. T Lunshian Lam presented a song titled One Movement in Time. The welcome address was delivered by executive chairman of the Khiamniungan Tribal Council, Talamong Khiamniungan, while the vote of thanks was proposed by planning committee convenor Thiamo.
Other highlights of the day included war cry competition, tug-of-war, bow and arrow shooting and traditional cultural dances. Men’s cultural troupes from Nokhu and Nokhu Noking, Pathso and Peshu villages presented traditional folk songs, while women’s cultural troupes from Thang Range Public Organization and Khiamniungan Women Cultural Troupe, Noklak town, also presented cultural items.
The festival concluded with a bonfire ceremony, with the torch borne by Khiamniungan Tribal Council president L Ngon and Miss Khiamniungan 2026 Tsukian Lamheing. The event was followed by ‘Strings and Voices’ performances featuring the DGP Band, Band of Brothers (32 Assam Rifles, Noklak), and various local artists.
