UK Becomes Official Country Partner for Hornbill Festival 2025 in Nagaland

UK Named Country Partner for Hornbill Festival 2025

Nagaland has announced the United Kingdom as the official Country Partner for the Hornbill Festival 2025, marking a significant milestone in international cultural collaboration. The partnership underscores Nagaland’s vision to elevate the festival to a global stage while strengthening artistic ties between India and the UK.

Formal Partnership Strengthens Cultural Ties

The agreement was signed in New Delhi between the Chief Minister of Nagaland and senior British Council officials. The partnership builds on years of cultural engagement and reflects mutual intent to enhance creative exchange, capacity-building and tourism. State officials highlighted that UK participation will improve the festival’s global visibility and attract broader international audiences.

British Council to Curate Special Programming

The British Council, working closely with the British Deputy High Commission in Kolkata, will design and oversee UK-linked showcases during the festival. The organisation has a longstanding association with Hornbill, having introduced British musicians and creative practitioners over the past several editions. The 2025 collaboration promises a curated blend of music, art and cultural performances.

Scottish Artist RuMac to Perform at the Festival

The 2025 edition will feature Scottish musician Ruairidh Maclean (RuMac) on 2 December, continuing last year’s tradition of cross-cultural collaborations that included Welsh, Naga and Khasi performers. The organisers believe such interactions enrich artistic diversity and promote meaningful cultural connections.

Exam Oriented Facts

• UK is the official Country Partner for Hornbill Festival 2025 .

• Agreement signed between Nagaland Government and British Council .

• Scottish artist Ruairidh Maclean (RuMac) will perform on 2 December 2025 .

• British Council is responsible for curating UK-linked programmes.

Boost to Cultural Diplomacy and Tourism

Officials noted that the UK’s involvement will expand opportunities in education, tourism, cultural enterprise and people-to-people engagement. The partnership is expected to position the Hornbill Festival as a stronger international platform showcasing Nagaland’s heritage and creative talent.