UTC HORNBILL FESTIVAL 2024 (Photos & Videos) ~ KHALVONTAWI

THE 2nd HORNBILL FESTIVAL was organised by the Naga/Northeast Fellowship of United Theological College (UTCNF), Bengaluru, in the college’s Tagore Hall on Wednesday, 04 December 2024, from 8:30 am to 9:30 am.

Members of the Naga Fellowship adorned themselves beautifully and elegantly in traditional attire, captivating the audience with ear-pleasing poetry, folk songs, and dances that kept everyone engaged.

This annual extravaganza, also called as the ‘Festival of Festivals’, is filled with diverse array of cultural displays, music, dances, songs, and indigenous games. The festival derives its name from the bird great Indian hornbill or great pied hornbill. This bird features in the folklores of Naga Community.

In her welcome address, Myingthunglo K. Odyuo, President of UTCNF, expressed joy and gratitude, stating:

“It is with great joy and deep gratitude that I extend our warmest greetings to all present on this special occasion. As we gather in this beautiful setting, let us take a moment to reflect on the deep history and significance of this occasion.”

She highlighted that the Hornbill Festival celebrates Naga heritage, fosters inter-tribal interaction, and preserves the rich culture of the 17 major Naga tribes, showcasing their customs, traditions, and artistry. Known as the “festival of festivals,” it unites the diverse Naga tribes while celebrating their unique traditions.

The festival serves as a reminder that God’s work is evident in every aspect of life, including cultural expressions. It affirms that God is present in all things, and through unity in diversity, the festival celebrates the beauty of creation and the interconnectedness of humanity.

Currently, UTCNF comprises 70 members, including three esteemed professors: Prof. Dr. Kaholi Zhimomi, Dr. Atola Longkumer, and Dr. Eyingbeni Humtsoe-Nienu. The student body consists of 62 members from 21 tribes across five northeastern states -- Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, and Nagaland -- including 23 doctoral students, 35 M.Th. students, and 4 B.D. students.

Rev. Dr. Chilkuri Vasantha Rao, Principal of UTC, Bengaluru, also graced the event here. He recently attended the 25th edition of the Hornbill Festival 2024, held from 1–10 Dec 2024 in Kisama, Kohima district, Nagaland.

Dr. Rao shared his lively experiences from the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, adding richness to the celebration at UTC.

Let us take a glimpse into Nagaland:

NAGALAND, established on 01 Dec 1963, is the 16th state of the Indian Union, with Kohima as its capital. Covering an area of 16,579 sq. km, Nagaland shares borders with ASSAM (north and west), MYANMAR and ARUNACHAL PRADESH (east), and MANIPUR (south). It has 17 administrative districts and is home to 17 major tribes, each with distinct cultural practices and dialects.

As per the 2011 Census, Nagaland’s population is 1,978,502 (1.02 million males and 0.95 million females), accounting for 0.16% of India's population, with a population density of 119 people per sq. km (lower than the national average of 382). The literacy rate is 79.55% (male: 82.75%, female: 76.11%), higher than India’s average of 72.98%.

Religion in Nagaland:

Christians are the majority, forming 87.93% of the population, with Christianity predominant in all districts.
Other religions include Hindus (8.75%), Muslims (2.47%), Buddhists (0.34%), Jains (0.13%), Sikhs (0.10%), and others (0.16%).

Nagaland is a mountainous state known for its stunning landscapes and peace-loving tribes celebrated for their rich culture and traditions.

Programme Sequence of the 2nd UTCNF Hornbill Festival

The 2nd UTCNF Hornbill Festival was a blend of tradition, celebration, and fellowship.

Ms. Chubakumla Jamir moderated the event as Pinku Pepe (Chair Lady). The programme began with an invocation prayer (Suikahai) by Ms. Yingli Omei, followed by a warm welcome address from UTCNF President, Ms. Myingthunglo K. Odyo.

The audience was captivated by a folk fusion performance, Jipukhun, watched attentively. This was followed by an intercessory prayer (Leshe – Ballad to God) led by Ms. Jeviholi Swu.

The celebration continued with a stunning performance of the Nyishi folk song and dance titled Dvming Dvram, led by Ms. Isha Sawin, symbolizing “a call to celebration.”

Next came:

Varesak Sakhai Haowa (Crumbling Creation) composed by Mr. Phayam Raleng, MTh II. This Tangkhul folksong won first place in the UTCNF Folksong Composition Competition 2024.
The Message (Keledeube) by Ms. Takusenla.
Amlokiqi Shekiqhe (Heartfelt Praise) by MTh I students of UTC. This Sumi folksong, composed by Ms. Pulokali Achumi, an MTh I student, was awarded first runner-up in the UTCNF Folksong Composition Competition 2024.
The event concluded with the Keju Akardom (Closing Prayer) by Ms. Neingute-u Sekhamo.

For detailed highlights, check the video

Indigenous Games: Competing for Victory!

Post-programme, the indigenous games brought a wave of fun and excitement, filling the air with laughter. Due to time constraints, three competitions were held:

Cock Fight
War Cry
Fat Eating Competition

Each regional fellowship participated, and humble prizes were distributed to all participants.

A special highlight was the participation of Rev. Dr. Chilkuri Vasantha Rao, UTC Principal, in the Fat Eating Competition. Known for his friendly demeanour and love for photography, Dr. Rao’s involvement drew much attention, making him the crowd-puller of the event.

VIDEO: COCK FIGHTING COMPETITION

VIDEO: WAR CRY COMPETITION

VIDEO: FAT EATING COMPETITION

--- Celebrations and Announcements ---

During a brief announcement session, Rev. Dr. Rao congratulated the UTC choir team for securing the first runners-up trophy in a recent choir competition. This announcement received thunderous applause from the audience. A senior student remarked with pride, “Last year, we were the winners!”

Refreshments and Fellowship

The celebration concluded with refreshments prepared cheerfully by UTCNF members, featuring:

Cooked sticky rice
Sugarless tea, tea with sugar, and black tea.

The joyous atmosphere continued with lively chit-chat, group photos, and camaraderie. As we enjoyed the moments, we knew that today’s celebrations would become cherished memories tomorrow.

VIDEO

(For detailed coverage, watch the video

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