12th North East Festival Kicks Off with Vibrant Celebrations in Delhi
New Delhi : The 12th edition of the North East Festival officially commenced today at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, Delhi, with a colourful and lively start. Showcasing the essence of eight Northeastern states and uniting over 200 communities, the festival began with a vibrant opening ceremony featuring the lighting of the lamp and a felicitation of distinguished dignitaries.
The inaugural event included a welcome address by Mr. Shyamkanu Mahanta, Chief Organiser of the North East Festival, followed by insightful speeches from key dignitaries. These included Mr. Pasang Dorjee Sona, Hon’ble Minister (Tourism), Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh; Mr. Temjen Imna Anong, Hon’ble Minister (Tourism), Govt. of Nagaland; Mr. Arunish Chawla, IAS, Secretary (Culture), Govt. of India; and Chief Guest, Mr. Pabitra Margherita, Hon’ble Minister of State (Textiles, MEA), Govt. of India. Their addresses highlighted the festival’s role in fostering cultural unity and promoting the Northeast’s heritage on a national platform.
At the B2B Tourism Meet, a robust delegation of industry leaders convened to discuss tourism opportunities in the Northeast. The Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI) was represented by Mr. Ved Khanna, President; Mr. Rajat Sawhney, Senior Vice President; Mr. Aashish Sehgal, Vice President; Mr. Dalip Gupta, General Secretary; and Mr. Manoj Varshney, Treasurer, among others. Members of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), including Mr. Ravi Gosain, Vice President, and Executive Committee members like Dr. Manoj Matta and Mr. Deepak Bhatnagar, also participated. These leaders brought their expertise to the table, reinforcing the Northeast’s potential as a premier tourism destination.
Padmapani Bora, IRS, Secretary, Tourism and Managing Director of Assam Tourism Development Corporation, emphasised, “Assam’s infrastructure and connectivity have reached new heights, making it a sought-after destination for travellers. The state offers everything from heritage and scenic beauty to fascinating nightlife and shopping experiences. With the International Tourism Mart in Kaziranga later this month, we aim to further spotlight the Northeast’s cultural wealth and tourism potential.”
The food zone was a highlight, with over 60 stalls offering an authentic gastronomic journey across the eight states of the Northeast. Visitors indulged in delicacies like smoked pork from Nagaland, bamboo shoot curries from Mizoram, Assamese pithas, and Khasi-style pork ribs. Adding a unique touch, Delhi-based stalls also participated, blending local flavours with Northeastern cuisines to offer an inclusive culinary experience.
The cultural performances enthralled the audience with a medley of traditional dances, including the Maibi dance, Pung Cholom, Kartal Cholom, Leima Jagoi, Raas Leela, Sattriya, and Bamboo Dance. Adding to the excitement, Assam’s singing icon Zubeen Garg delivered an electrifying performance, leaving the crowd energised and entertained. Other performances by Aryan Katoch, Jack of Spade’Z, Rocky Glock, Sheldawn, Ring Dangsha, Just Chorus, and DJ Loki elevated the festive atmosphere.
The fashion show added glamour and sophistication, showcasing collections by 16 talented designers from the Northeast. It captivated the audience, with models walking to live music and weaving an unforgettable narrative of Northeastern creativity.
Nagaland artisan Yoho, a stall owner and regular participant, shared her perspective, “Over the years, I have seen how this festival has transformed into a platform for artisans like me to thrive. My woolen handmade products, designed to keep people warm and promote sustainability, resonate with the winter season here. This platform is a blessing for us, providing exposure and a steady demand.”
Reflecting on the festival’s evolution, Mr. Shyamkanu Mahanta remarked, “The North East Festival is a celebration of the region’s vivacious spirit, bringing together culture, creativity, and commerce under one roof. From soulful performances to meaningful collaborations, this platform unites diverse traditions and paves the way for opportunities that benefit the entire region. Our aim this year is to inspire connections, create opportunities, and take the essence of the Northeast to greater heights.”
The North East Festival continues until November 17, offering a mix of art, music, food, fashion, and business engagements. Visitors can explore unique exhibitions, taste exquisite cuisines, enjoy mesmerising performances, and connect with the unparalleled diversity that defines the Northeast.