In a grand display of cultural pride, around 1,500 members of the Angami Naga tribe took part in the iconic ‘Stone Pulling Ceremony’ at Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival. This powerful event highlighted the tribe’s strength and unity as they pulled a massive 15-tonne stone across four kilometers of winding roads near Kohima. The ceremony, a significant cultural tradition, captivated both locals and tourists.
The Ceremony
The stone used in the event was a massive 24 feet long, 6 feet wide, and 1.8 feet thick, and it was pulled by the tribe using ropes. As the group worked together, the men hummed traditional tunes, and the sound of gunshots echoed in the background to motivate the participants. Women, dressed in vibrant traditional costumes, walked alongside, carrying food and water in bamboo baskets to support the effort. This ceremony took place on the fourth day of the 10-day Hornbill Festival, which is held annually at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama-Dituthong, about 12 kilometers from Kohima.
Key Figures and Speeches
The ceremony was officially flagged off by Union Tourism Minister Ganjendra Singh Shekhawat, who was joined by other dignitaries, including Neiphiu Rio, the Chief Minister of Nagaland, and Sharingain Longkumer, the Speaker of the Assembly. In his speech, Shekhawat emphasized the symbolism of unity, stating that the stone-pulling tradition reflects the strength that comes from working together. “The pulling of stone gives us a sense that united we are strong,” Shekhawat said. He added that the event reminded people of how ancestors united to pull heavy objects and that such unity could help guide India toward a prosperous future.
Shekhawat also expressed his admiration for the Hornbill Festival and urged the Government of India to increase support to make it internationally recognized, bringing more foreign visitors to the state.
Cultural Significance and Promoting Heritage
Nagaland’s Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio, highlighted the importance of preserving and promoting the state’s rich cultural heritage. He called the event a “moment of happiness” that brought the people together to celebrate their festivals.
British Council’s Involvement
The British Council played a key role in organizing a cultural event at the Hornbill Festival. Alison Barrett MBE, the Country Director of the British Council in India, discussed the role of cultural exchanges in fostering understanding across borders. Barrett emphasized that music, literature, and the arts are powerful tools for connecting people and creating friendships globally. She also pointed out that educational partnerships and cross-cultural exchanges can help contribute to a more peaceful and prosperous world.
Symbol of Unity and Cultural Preservation
As the Hornbill Festival progresses, the ‘Stone Pulling Ceremony’ remains an emblem of the Angami Naga tribe’s unity, resilience, and dedication to preserving their cultural traditions. The event, along with the efforts of organizations like the British Council, exemplifies the power of cultural exchanges in fostering a more connected and harmonious global community.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What was the primary event that took place at the Hornbill Festival?
a) Traditional dance performances
b) Stone Pulling Ceremony
c) Art exhibitions
d) Cultural exchange workshops
Answer: b) Stone Pulling Ceremony - How many members of the Angami Naga tribe participated in the Stone Pulling Ceremony?
a) 500
b) 1,500
c) 2,000
d) 10,000
Answer: b) 1,500 - Who officially flagged off the Stone Pulling Ceremony?
a) Neiphiu Rio
b) Ganjendra Singh Shekhawat
c) Sharingain Longkumer
d) Alison Barrett
Answer: b) Ganjendra Singh Shekhawat - What did Ganjendra Singh Shekhawat emphasize in his speech?
a) The need for foreign tourism
b) The importance of unity
c) Cultural preservation
d) Economic development
Answer: b) The importance of unity - Which organization was involved in organizing cultural events at the Hornbill Festival?
a) United Nations
b) British Council
c) World Trade Organization
d) International Red Cross
Answer: b) British Council - What was the size of the stone pulled during the ceremony?
a) 10 feet long, 5 feet wide
b) 24 feet long, 6 feet wide
c) 30 feet long, 4 feet wide
d) 20 feet long, 7 feet wide
Answer: b) 24 feet long, 6 feet wide - What is the significance of the Stone Pulling Ceremony for the Angami Naga tribe?
a) It is a commercial event
b) It symbolizes unity and strength
c) It is a religious ceremony
d) It is a dance competition
Answer: b) It symbolizes unity and strength