Dynamics of Hornbill Festival of Nagaland: Exploring Identity Assertion and Cultural Negotiation.

The Hornbill Festival, showcasing the customs and heritage of over 17 Naga tribes, is the largest cultural event in the State of Nagaland. This event, which takes place every year in December for ten days, generates an enormous spike in both domestic and foreign culture-conscious visitors to the State. When discussing the Nagas, one of the most commonly mentioned aspects of their history is that their ancestors practiced headhunting. This practice earned them the title of the "headhunters' tribe," and it continues to hold cultural significance, often reflected in their traditional performances. Each year, the festival organizers select a cultural troupe from each tribe to represent as custodians of the unique Naga heritage. The performances encompass various artistic expressions, including folk songs, traditional dances, imitation games depicting hunting or warfare, and more. This research will delve into the intricacies of a variety of performances showcased during the festival, elucidating their cultural significance and meanings held by the people. Furthermore, it explores to what extent the festival can unite diverse Naga communities and evoke a spirit of sharing a common identity among them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]