Current Affairs - Festivity

The Hornbill Festival, Nagaland's premier cultural event, is a spectacular celebration of the state's rich heritage and vibrant traditions. Held annually from December 1-10 in Kisama, Nagaland, the festival showcases the music, dance, and crafts of various ethnic communities. The 25th edition of the festival has garnered international attention with Japan and Wales as partner countries, featuring Japanese cultural performances, handicraft workshops, and bamboo product exhibitions. This cultural extravaganza attracts numerous tourists and fosters cultural exchange, strengthening bilateral ties between India and Japan.

The inaugural ceremony of the first Bodoland Mohotsov will take place in New Delhi at the SAI Indira Gandhi Sports Complex. Prime Minister will kick-start the two-day festival on November 15 at 6:30 PM, celebrating the rich culture and heritage of the Bodoland region. The event aims to promote peace, integration, and cultural exchange among the indigenous Bodo people from Bodoland, Assam, West Bengal, Nepal, and border areas of North East India. The theme "Peace and Harmony for Prosperous Bharat" underscores the significance of this cultural celebration.

Guru Nanak Jayanti, a significant festival for Sikhs, commemorates the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Sikh guru. In 2024, this auspicious day falls on Friday, November 15, marking the 555th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The celebrations begin early in the morning, following specific timings, and hold great significance as they remind people of Guru Nanak's teachings of unity, equality, and selfless service. His messages promote love, kindness, and peace, transcending religious boundaries and emphasizing the importance of treating everyone with respect and dignity.

Uttarakhand, renowned for its rich cultural heritage, proudly celebrates Igas Bagwal, a vibrant festival deeply rooted in local customs and traditions. Observed 11 days after Diwali, Igas Bagwal symbolizes the essence of Uttarakhand's folk heritage, uniting communities through shared festivities and traditional practices. The festival holds immense significance in the Garhwal region, marking the end of Lord Vishnu's four-month rest period and signifying auspicious beginnings. Igas Bagwal's origins are intertwined with mythological and historical stories, including the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya and Madhav Singh Bhandari's victory over Tibet.

Manipur's Meitei community celebrates Ningol Chakkouba, a significant festival promoting family unity and togetherness. Married daughters return to their maternal homes for feasting, gift exchanges, and reunions. Traditions include sons inviting sisters a week in advance, highlighting the festival's emphasis on strengthening familial bonds. Although celebrations extend beyond Manipur, uniting Manipuri communities across India and abroad, the state remains the epicentre of this joyous festival. Ningol Chakkouba's significance transcends cultural boundaries, showcasing Manipur's rich heritage and resilient community spirit.