Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh will inaugurate the 19th Hornbill Festival at Kisama village near Kohima in Nagaland on Saturday. On the occasion, Nagaland Governor PB Acharya will be the chief host, while US Ambassador to India Kenneth I Juster has been invited as the guest of honour, informed Additional director of Nagaland tourism department Akhale Vizol said.

The Nagaland government has earmarked Rs. 5 crore for the festival. The celebrations and programmes have been scheduled in five districts of the State- Kohima, Dimapur, Mokokchung, Phek and Wokha.  The fest aims to display the rich traditions and the vibrant culture of Nagaland through colourful performances, crafts, sports, food fairs, games and ceremonies.

The Hornbill Festival is celebrated every year in the first week of December. Usually, the festival goes on for a week but looking at the popularity and success of the fest and the number of people it attracts from across the globe, this year the festival dates have been extended by three days. So, 2018 will see an epic celebration at the 10-day long Hornbill Festival.