Nagaland. Festival of Diversity

When planning my expeditions, I always try to attend events crucial to local communities. In 2023, this led me to Nagaland - an autonomous state in India - for the Hornbill Festival. It was a true feast for the body and soul!

The event's idea is the integration of the 16 ethnic subgroups of the Naga People, including the Konyak tribe, formerly known as headhunters, who proved their manhood by severing enemies' heads until the 1970s. Although the tribes now live in harmony, their strong ethnic identity makes the Hornbill Festival a celebration of diversity. Each tribe has a distinct language, costume, dance, and - most fascinatingly for me - jewellery!

I was totally absorbed by the event. I managed to meet the last of the headhunters – now the elders of the Konyak tribe, visited traditional Naga People homes, and experienced their everyday life.