North East Festival complements PM Modi’s vision for Ashtalakshmi: Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister

New Delhi: The North East Festival (NEF) 2024 concluded today at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, Delhi, wrapping up three days of vibrant celebrations that showcased the cultural richness, artistic brilliance, and economic potential of the Northeast. Thousands of attendees were treated to a mix of traditional and contemporary experiences, making the festival a grand success.

North East Festival is presentation of Ministry of Culture Govt of India along with Ministry of DoNER, Govt of India.

The closing ceremony was graced by Mr. Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Mr. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Culture, Govt of India, Mr. Temjen Imna Along, Tourism Minister, Nagaland among others. Their presence showcased the festival’s role in strengthening cultural and economic ties.

Speaking about the festival, Mr. Sarbananda Sonowal said, “Hon’ble PM Narendra Modi has a vision for North East. He treats the NE states as Ashtalaksmi. The North East Festival exemplifies the transformative potential of NE region. North East Festival complements PM Modi’s vision for Ashtalakshmi. It serves as an outstanding platform to spotlight Assam and our other 7 states’ unparalleled beauty, rich traditions, and emerging opportunities in tourism, infrastructure, and connectivity. With enhanced roadways, airports, and seamless links to the rest of India and the world, the region is becoming a magnet for travellers, investors, and cultural enthusiasts. This festival not only celebrates our vibrant traditions and talents but also positions the Northeast as a rising hub of economic significance. Events like these amplify the region’s global appeal, fostering partnerships, driving investments, and inspiring a new era of growth that benefits all communities in the Northeast.”

Mr. Shyamkanu Mahanta, Chief Organiser of NEF, said, “The North East Festival 2024 has once again demonstrated the incredible diversity, talent, and opportunities our region offers. From vibrant fashion shows and soulful music to innovative tourism collaborations, this festival has been a celebration of culture and commerce. We are committed to continuing this journey of bridging the Northeast with the rest of India and fostering unity through such platforms.”

The final day featured electrifying performances from internationally acclaimed Bipul Chettri and the Travelling Band, Assam’s Neel Akash, Riar Saab, Dossers Urge, Rjay, No-D, and Karan B, bringing the audience to their feet. The festival’s hip-hop dance mega-event added youthful energy, while the much-anticipated Battle of the Bands drew massive crowds, celebrating emerging musical talents.

Fashion shows showcasing the region’s exquisite textiles and modern designs captivated the audience, blending tradition with innovation. Additionally, the festival hosted B2B tourism meets, fostering opportunities for collaborations between Northeast tour operators and stakeholders from across India, highlighting the unexplored beauty and unique experiences of the region.

The NEF Achievement Awards honoured luminaries like actor Adil Hussain, Larsing Ming Sawyan (MD, Centre Point Group Enterprises, and Co-chair of YLC-6), and Ratan Sharma (Chairman, Satyam Group and Mayfair Spring Valley Resort, Guwahati). On the other hand, senior journalists Aroonim Bhuyan, Reema Sharma, and Huidrom Athouba Meete were recognised with the NEF Media Award for their exceptional contributions to Northeast India’s narrative.

The handloom and handicraft stalls were a hub of creativity, presenting traditional textiles, intricate jewelry, and eco-friendly products. The food zone offered a delightful culinary journey, featuring authentic dishes like smoked meats, bamboo shoot delicacies, and fiery bhut jolokia recipes alongside Delhi’s popular street snacks.

Folk performances by over 400 artists showcased traditional dance forms from the Northeast, leaving audiences spellbound. The festival also highlighted the region’s tourism potential through vivid exhibits and engaging presentations.

Sharing her experience, Dibrugarh-based entrepreneur Elvena Achumi said, “I am participating here for the first time. I learned about this festival through their social media advertising. This festival promotes young and female entrepreneurs. People purchased many handloom materials from me, such as shawls, stoles, ponchos, and silk sarees. I am very happy with the outcome.”

Indusmita Saikia, who runs a cloud kitchen and set up her food stall Sangmai Xaal at the festival, remarked, “The response here has been incredible! It has given me the confidence to finally pursue my long-held dream of opening a café in Delhi. This festival truly inspired me to take that step now.”

The North East Festival 2024 will be remembered as a confluence of creativity, collaboration, and cultural and cultural pride, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who experienced it.